By Wasike Elvis
Prominent human rights activist Benson Okumu has called on the public and healthcare stakeholders to rally behind Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) and its leadership, urging patience, integrity, and commitment to improving patient-centered care.
In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, Okumu praised MTRH for its longstanding role as a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, especially under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Philip Kirwa, whom he described as a “bold, visionary, and reform-driven leader.”
“Under Dr. Kirwa’s stewardship, MTRH has embraced values of integrity, accountability, and service excellence,” said Okumu. “His leadership has brought new energy and optimism to staff and patients alike, continuing a legacy of excellence he helped shape as Deputy CEO.”
The activist called on the community to recognize the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, emphasizing that meaningful reform is a process requiring time, teamwork, and public trust. He noted that early implementation challenges with SHA (Social Health Authority) and E-Citizen platforms are teething problems that will be resolved in due course.
However, Okumu also sounded the alarm on what he termed “internal sabotage” by individuals—some within the medical fraternity—who are allegedly undermining institutional efforts for personal gain.
“It is disheartening that some healthcare workers are reported to be deliberately delaying services, misdirecting patients, or referring them to private doctors for unethical benefit,” he stated. “These actions not only betray the trust of patients but compromise the very integrity of our public healthcare system.”
Citing a growing number of complaints, Okumu highlighted worrying trends, including poor communication, unnecessary delays, unauthorized access to patient records, and a dismissive attitude by certain staff members.
“These are not simple lapses—they are calculated acts that reflect deeper resistance to progress. The idea that a resident doctor cannot clearly inform a patient that a report will not be issued, yet can violate protocol and access confidential records, is both perplexing and unacceptable,” Okumu said.
He emphasized that while the CEO sets the tone for institutional reform, he cannot micromanage every department. “Each staff member must take personal responsibility. Every encounter with a patient is a reflection of MTRH’s values,” he added.
Okumu’s message concluded with a plea to the public and institutional stakeholders to stand with MTRH, reject sabotage in all forms, and champion a healthcare culture where the patient truly comes first.
“Our collective hope for an enhanced, more responsive, and effective healthcare system depends on our willingness to support reforms and hold every actor accountable,” he said.
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