Wetang'ula Criticizes Western Kenya Leaders Opposing SHIF Registration

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has criticized some Western Kenya leaders for rallying Kenyans against registering for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

Speaking at the burial of Mzee John Wafula Mutunga in Weonia Village, Trans Nzoia County, Wetang'ula expressed disappointment over the negative sentiments, which he said have adversely affected registration turnout in the region.

"It is very unfortunate that some leaders are criticizing the registration of the Social Health Insurance Fund," said the Speaker.

The late Mzee Mutunga was the father of Mr. Joseph Dabodabo, a 2022 Kiminini parliamentary candidate and now a director at Kenyatta National Hospital.

Wetang'ula urged county governments in the region to allocate funds to sensitize residents and encourage them to register for the program at the ward level.

Health Cabinet Secretary Debra Mulongk noted that the region has one of the lowest registration rates, with less than 10% of residents enrolled in the insurance program.

Meanwhile, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi called on President William Ruto to grant more authority to Cabinet Secretaries to enhance the delivery of government programs.

He emphasized that empowering ministers to lead initiatives would improve the administration’s effectiveness.

“The success of the government depends on ministers taking charge rather than the president micromanaging everything,” Amisi stated.

He also urged Kenyans to maintain patriotism and respect for the Head of State even when offering criticism.

“We have no other president apart from the one we have. Let us not forget our patriotism even as we address areas of concern,” he added.

Amisi further expressed support for ODM party leader Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship in the upcoming elections.

Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau and Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi echoed calls for unity among leaders, urging a shift from divisive politics to issue-based leadership.

“We need to focus on politics of policies and not personalities. Unity will bring more development to our region,” said Bisau.

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