Salasya demands immediate disbandment of SHA
By Faith Lagat, September 2, 2025Peter Salasya has called for the immediate disbandment of the Social Health Authority (SHA), full refunds for contributors, and accountability for those behind mismanagement.
In a post on X on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Salasya said, “We demand the SHA’s immediate disbandment, full refunds for contributors, and accountability for those who orchestrated this.” The statement comes amid growing public frustration over the body tasked with implementing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
Multi-Agency Probe Launched
The call by Salasya follows revelations of widespread fraud in the SHA, involving fake claims by healthcare facilities, some doctors, and patients.
On Monday, September 1, 2025, DCI boss Mohammed Amin pledged a robust investigation into 1,188 files handed over by the Ministry of Health. Speaking alongside Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Amin said, “Our agency will investigate promptly and without favouring those implicated in wrongdoing. We value the importance of healthcare and its role in national security.”
The probe includes officers from the SHA, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), and the digital health agency. Duale handed over 1,888 files, marking a major escalation in the fight against ghost hospitals and fraudulent claims. Digitisation of the health system is being used to track claims and detect non-compliant facilities.
Political pressure mounts
The scandal has intensified calls for Duale’s resignation, with MPs from the Kenya Moja caucus issuing a 48- to 72-hour ultimatum on August 31. Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi accused the Cabinet Secretary of presiding over multi-billion-shilling fraud that has disrupted healthcare delivery. Despite this, Duale posted on X: “Dirty water does not stop plants from growing, so do not let negative words stop your progress,” reaffirming his commitment to UHC.
President William Ruto has also acted, revoking licenses for over 1,000 fraudulent health facilities and promising prosecution for offenders. “Na hatutaondoi leseni peke yake, tutawafuata watalipa hizo pesa, na tutawapeleka kortini,” he said in Nandi County on August 30, 2025.
Salasya’s demand for SHA disbandment and refunds reflects public anger over systemic failures, while the government’s crackdown signals a pivotal moment in Kenya’s healthcare reform. With investigations ongoing, the push for accountability remains a critical issue in safeguarding the UHC program.