In a transformative retreat for Members of Parliament held in Naivasha, MPs have engaged in a candid and constructive discussion concerning the ongoing challenges within the Ministry of Health. The meeting centered around the controversial case of Grace Njoki, a woman charged with creating a disturbance at the Ministry of Health. During the retreat, Members of Parliament (MPs) expressed their concerns and called for the immediate withdrawal of complaints against Ms. Njoki.
The discussions resulted in significant outcomes, with the Principal Secretary (PS) for Health agreeing to retract the complaints against Grace Njoki. In a bid to prevent similar incidents in the future, the PS committed to setting up a dedicated compassionate unit within the Ministry of Health. This unit will be tasked with addressing the frustrations and grievances of individuals seeking health services, ensuring that the needs of the public are handled with greater empathy and care.
“The frustration experienced by citizens is real and valid, and it is imperative that we acknowledge it by putting systems in place that address these concerns,” said Millie Odhiambo, the Member of Parliament for Suba North. “We are pleased that the PS has recognized this and agreed to take the necessary steps to offer more compassion within the Ministry of Health.”
The retreat also yielded positive results for future policy improvements, with the Speaker of the National Assembly instructing the Health Committee to compile a detailed report addressing these concerns and present it to the House once Parliament resumes. The report will include recommendations on how to improve services and avoid similar disruptions in the future.
“We are committed to ensuring that health services are delivered in a way that respects the dignity of every Kenyan, especially those who feel marginalized by the system,” said Odhiambo.
The Members of Parliament also discussed several other issues related to the health sector, including the urgent need for reforms and better oversight of the Ministry. The discussions, while candid, were a clear demonstration of MPs' resolve to engage with and address the concerns of their constituents.
As Parliament prepares to reconvene, the health sector remains a critical focal point for lawmakers, with this retreat marking a step towards greater accountability and improved service delivery in the Ministry of Health.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo contributed to this report.