A public dispute between Rigathi Gachagua and Aden Duale has continued to escalate, with both leaders trading accusations over alleged irregularities within the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Speaking during a United Opposition tour in the Ukambani region, Gachagua accused the Health Cabinet Secretary of having vested interests in a company allegedly linked to a Ksh104 billion contract under SHA.
The former Deputy President claimed that Duale holds a 17 per cent stake in a firm said to be part of a consortium involved in implementing the system.
Gachagua further alleged that billions of shillings had been lost through the programme, pointing to what he described as widespread mismanagement and corruption within the country’s health financing framework.
He also raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds.In response, Duale strongly denied the allegations, terming them as unfounded and politically motivated.
“I still wait for him to go to the Business Registration Bureau and get my wealth declaration. I am a man of integrity. I do not own any company that does business with the government,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary challenged Gachagua to formally present evidence to support his claims, including holding a press conference.
He maintained that he is able to fully account for his financial dealings and insisted that the accusations were meant to damage his reputation.
The exchange marks the second day of sharp differences between the two leaders over the SHA programme, which replaced the former National Health Insurance Fund.
Duale defended the authority’s performance, stating that Ksh27.5 billion has been paid out in claims over a 19-month period, representing 78 per cent of processed claims.
He added that reforms within SHA, including the use of automated systems and artificial intelligence, are aimed at improving efficiency and reducing fraud.
At the same time, Duale accused unnamed individuals linked to Gachagua of being involved in alleged irregularities under the previous NHIF system.
He warned that he would publicly disclose their identities, saying, “There are many cartels, including those associated with the former Deputy President, who were involved in the destruction of NHIF. I will name them.”
Gachagua also questioned the management of the e-Citizen platform, alleging that Ksh6.3 billion had been irregularly withdrawn, although these claims have not been independently verified.
During the tour, Gachagua was accompanied by leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa and Justin Muturi.
The group criticised the administration of William Ruto, citing governance challenges affecting sectors such as health and agriculture.
