Murang’a Deputy Speaker Calls on MPs to Address Kenya’s Growing Challenges
Murang’a Deputy Speaker and Kihumbu-ini Member of County Assembly, Hon. Moses Gachui, has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to shift their focus from political squabbles to addressing the critical issues currently facing Kenyans. Gachui, who expressed his frustration over the government’s handling of key sectors, called on MPs to demonstrate the same determination they used in impeaching Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to resolve pressing national concerns.
Among the major issues raised by Gachui were the challenges surrounding the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). He cited the widespread confusion and frustration within the healthcare sector, noting that many patients across the country were experiencing delays and being denied essential services due to the unclear transition process.
“The uncertainty is palpable in hospitals nationwide, where patients are either waiting for their details to be approved or being turned away,” Gachui said. “Some are being forced to pay for crucial services, like dialysis, out of pocket, which is putting an unbearable financial strain on families.”
Gachui also highlighted the ongoing difficulties in the education sector, particularly with the implementation of Junior Secondary School (JSS). He expressed concern over the government’s decision to establish JSS only in select primary schools, a move he said had created confusion and disrupted learning. Many communities, he pointed out, had invested in local educational facilities, and the new guidelines were undermining these efforts.
“The decision to centralize JSS in a few schools is forcing students to travel long distances, which is not only inconvenient but also dangerous. We must ensure that educational policies benefit all communities, not just a select few,” he emphasized. “The government must work closely with local communities to find a solution that respects the investments already made in education at the grassroots level.”
In his address, Gachui condemned the way stakeholders were handling the future of education, particularly the lack of a comprehensive plan to support JSS. He called for more collaboration between the Ministry of Education and local communities to address the challenges faced by the new system.
Hon. Gachui’s statements reflect growing concern among Kenyans about the effectiveness of recent government reforms, especially in healthcare and education. As the country grapples with these issues, many are calling for stronger leadership and decisive action to ensure that citizens’ needs are prioritized over political agendas.