Gachagua Cites Personal Errands After Missing SHA Evidence Deadline

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said he did not meet a deadline to present evidence against the Social Health Authority (SHA), citing personal errands and joking that he had stopped for a haircut.

Speaking at an opposition rally in Ukambani, Gachagua addressed a challenge issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to provide proof of alleged mismanagement within the government-backed health insurance programme. Although he did not submit a dossier, he repeated claims that the SHA is close to collapse and alleged that the project, which he said cost Sh104 billion, has been affected by the diversion of funds. 

He also suggested that one of the firms involved is linked to a senior government official, but offered no supporting documentation. Gachagua has in recent days intensified his criticism of the scheme, alleging that up to Sh50 billion has been lost and warning that the reforms are financially unsustainable. 

His remarks have been rejected by Duale, who maintains that the programme is operating as planned and continues to expand across the country. Duale said more than 30 million Kenyans have registered with the SHA, with thousands joining each day. 

He reported that Sh92.5 billion has been disbursed under the framework, including Sh75 billion through the Social Health Insurance Fund and Sh13 billion allocated to primary healthcare services. He described Gachagua’s claims as politically driven and accused him of undermining confidence in the system.