By Elvis Lagat
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has firmly responded to critics who have questioned his ability to manage the Ministry of Health without a medical degree. Duale, who has faced criticism from various quarters, including healthcare unions, emphasized that possessing a medical background is not a requirement for effectively running the ministry.
Speaking in response to the ongoing debate, Duale pointed out that over the last 20 years, only two medical doctors have held top leadership positions within the ministry, arguing that this demonstrates that medical qualifications are not essential for the role.
"Those who criticize me have their own agendas. I have been entrusted with a responsibility, and I don’t carry it out alone. I collaborate with the professionals in this ministry, the Cabinet, and the President’s leadership," Duale stated.
The Health CS also drew comparisons with other ministers in the Cabinet, highlighting that the Minister for Infrastructure, for example, does not need to be an expert in road engineering to effectively oversee the sector. He also referenced his colleague, Minister Deborah Barasa, a medical doctor, who successfully managed the Environment Ministry despite not being a specialist in environmental sciences.
"My colleague, Deborah Barasa, is a medical doctor, yet she successfully managed the Environment Ministry despite not being a specialist in environmental sciences. These criticisms are rather shallow," he added.
Duale made these remarks while addressing healthcare workers who had gathered outside the Ministry of Health’s headquarters to protest various issues, including poor working conditions and the welfare of doctors. He reassured the healthcare professionals that he is committed to resolving their concerns, particularly regarding employment matters.
"I have committed to resolving critical issues, including the disbursement of gratuity and the transition of staff with over five years of service to Permanent and Pensionable terms within the next three weeks," Duale explained, promising immediate action to improve the working conditions of healthcare workers.
In addition to addressing employment concerns, Duale reaffirmed his dedication to improving the healthcare system at large. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the well-being of healthcare workers while maintaining the integrity and quality of the sector.
"I am dedicated to reinforcing the healthcare system by taking firm action against unqualified individuals who compromise the standard of care in our country," Duale stated.
This response comes after Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary-General Davji Atellah questioned Duale’s ability to effectively manage the ministry. Atellah, in a media interview on March 30, expressed concerns that Duale lacked a clear understanding of the country’s healthcare framework, which he believed could hinder his leadership.
Atellah also highlighted that Duale's predecessor, Deborah Barasa, had a deeper understanding of the sector's challenges. He noted that under Barasa’s leadership, KMPDU had successfully averted a strike for the first time in history due to her comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system.
Despite these criticisms, Duale remains committed to his role and is focused on addressing the immediate and long-term challenges facing Kenya’s healthcare sector.
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