Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary (PS) Mary Muthoni has urged Kenyans to disregard what she termed propaganda surrounding the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying the programme continues to provide essential services to many citizens.
Speaking during a Kanisa Mashinani prayer service at ACK St. Philips Kiang’ombe Church in Kirinyaga Central, Muthoni encouraged the public to judge SHA based on the benefits it delivers to over 30 million registered Kenyans rather than political criticism.
“SHA continues to work for many Kenyans,” she said, noting that some critics may not fully appreciate the importance of the programme because they have not experienced serious illness or have the financial means to afford private medical insurance.
The PS cautioned Kenyans against being misled by politicians and urged them to consider the practical impact of SHA on ordinary citizens.
Muthoni also raised concern over politically motivated violence, warning political leaders against putting the lives of innocent Kenyans at risk in pursuit of their ambitions. She called for what she described as “political hygiene” as the country prepares for the next General Election, urging leaders to conduct peaceful campaigns.
“Leaders should be able to campaign and articulate their agendas and manifestos without putting the lives of innocent Kenyans at risk,” she said.
Muthoni said political competition should focus on policies, agendas and manifestos rather than violence, urging leaders to embrace peaceful engagement throughout the campaign period.
She acknowledged that churches play a critical role in promoting public health by reaching communities with public messages that encourage healthy living and disease prevention.
By Mutai Kipng’etich
