Political commentator and lawyer Willis Otieno has launched a scathing attack on Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, accusing the government of making noise without delivery.

His remarks came in response to Duale’s statement on the government’s efforts to address maternal health challenges.

Willis Otieno was quick to hit back, dismissing Duale’s statement as empty rhetoric. He accused the government of being out of touch with reality and failing to deliver on its promises.

Also watch: Willis Otieno blames Ruto, says State House is now a hub of corruption and backroom deals

“Your brain works like this, government: lots of noise, no delivery. You confuse pointing out problems with denying them,” Otieno posted on his official X account today.

He went on to contrast his own efforts with those of Duale. “Some of us fight to fix the rot, while you camp on WiFi throwing tantrums like a keyboard vigilante,” he stated.

Otieno went on to argue that the government appears more focused on public relations stunts and image-building campaigns than on delivering real, practical solutions to the challenges facing citizens.

He suggested that flashy announcements and media appearances have taken the place of meaningful action, leaving ordinary Kenyans frustrated and disillusioned.

“PR is your addiction, propaganda is your gospel, and incompetence is your reality,” he added.

Duale on maternal care

In a statement, Duale emphasised the government’s commitment to reducing maternal deaths across the country. He announced a new strategy dubbed “No Woman Should Die While Giving Life”, saying the ministry is rolling out measures to ensure women have access to skilled birth attendants and quality healthcare.

“No mother who visits any of our healthcare centres, not as a patient but healthy and happy, should die,” Duale said.

Also watch: Duale urges Kenyans to report suspicious activities related to SHA

He explained that the government is focusing on improving healthcare financing and using data to address county-specific needs. According to him, more than 20 countries are currently on the radar due to high maternal mortality rates.

“We shall be improving healthcare financing and using data to plan for county-specific needs. Over 20 counties are on the radar for high maternal mortality rates. We are already acting as a ministry,” he added.

Duale also urged expectant mothers to prioritise early and consistent medical checkups.

“We urge our women to start prenatal care early, see a health care provider throughout the pregnancy, and be sure to attend postpartum visits, which can help to prevent and treat severe pregnancy-related complications,” he stated.

Heated debate on healthcare

The exchange between the two leaders reflects the growing political tension around the state of healthcare in Kenya. While the government has insisted that reforms are underway to curb maternal deaths, critics like Otieno argue that the promises are hollow unless backed by real delivery.