Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale criticized Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha on Friday for her decision to downgrade Iguhu Level IV Hospital to a dispensary.
Addressing a crowd in Kakamega, Khalwale expressed his disapproval of Nakhumicha’s recent plans, citing the lack of a mortuary and other essential resources as the reasons for the downgrade.
While acknowledging his role in establishing the hospital, the senator emphasized that as a Cabinet Secretary, Nakhumicha should allocate funds to address any deficiencies the hospital may have rather than opting for downgrading.
Khalwale further sternly warned the CS that any attempts to downgrade the facility would lead to severe consequences, and those involved would need to contend with him first.
“I heard CS Susan Nakhumicha saying she will downgrade Iguhu Level IV Hospital to a dispensary because it lacks a mortuary. Nakhumicha, listen to me carefully. I built Iguhu Hospital, and if, in your assessment, you discovered that the facility lacks a mortuary or any other thing, you can’t downgrade it. It’s your job to disburse funds to build a mortuary at the facility. You cannot downgrade the hospital, and if you do, you will have to bring down Khalwale.”
Khalwale’s remarks underscore his commitment to preserving the status and functionality of the hospital he played a role in establishing. The dispute raises questions about the appropriate measures for addressing resource deficiencies in public healthcare facilities and the role of government officials in maintaining and improving these crucial institutions.
