Women Members of Parliament are now calling for the sacking of Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha due to the current issues plaguing the health sector. The legislators are particularly upset about the discontinuation of the Linda Mama program, which provided assistance with delivery fees for women from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The decision to halt the program has raised concerns about an increase in mortality rates, especially with the ongoing doctors’ strike and challenges facing the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). Led by Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba and Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, the women MPs have expressed their disappointment in CS Nakhumicha’s performance and are demanding her resignation.
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Millie Odhiambo criticized the Health Cabinet Secretary for failing to fulfill her duties and causing distress to women. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that women cannot wait indefinitely for essential healthcare services. Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu echoed these sentiments, calling for Nakhumicha’s dismissal for the embarrassment she has brought upon women.
The MPs highlighted the dire consequences of the Linda Mama program’s suspension, noting that many women are suffering due to the lack of medical care. They questioned the rationale behind discontinuing the program without a suitable alternative in place, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions to prevent further harm to pregnant women.
CS Nakhumicha is expected to face tough questions during her appearance in the House, with Embakasi East MP Babu Owino gathering support for a motion of no confidence. The women legislators are determined to hold the Health Cabinet Secretary accountable for the current healthcare crisis and are demanding immediate action to address the challenges facing women in need of medical assistance.
According to analysts, the call for the sacking of Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha reflects the growing frustration among women MPs over the state of the health sector. The discontinuation of the Linda Mama program has highlighted the urgent need for effective leadership and solutions to ensure the well-being of women in Kenya. It is essential for the government to prioritize women’s healthcare and address the issues affecting the health sector to prevent further harm and loss of life.