The Health Cabinet Secretary has revealed that he is ready to answer questions from any authority regarding his leadership role in the Ministry of Health.
This follows mounting pressure after several leaders gave him a 48-hour ultimatum to resign.
The leaders, largely legislators from a rising political group known as 'Kenya Moja', cited alleged fraud involving billions of shillings at the Social Health Authority (SHA) as the reason for the ultimatum.
In response, Duale said that he was confident about his career, which has spanned over 20 years in various roles. He defended himself, stating that his record was clear and that he had nothing to hide.
‘’My career in public service spans over 20 years, a significant portion of which was spent in the corridors of Parliament in various leadership roles. My record on integrity and declaration of assets is a matter of public record, detailed in the Hansard from my vetting process,’’ Duale said.
‘’I am ready and willing to present myself before any parliamentary committee or oversight body to account for every asset I own,’’ the CS continued.
SHA Claims Fraud
The legislatures had blamed Duale and SHA chair, Abdi Mohammed, for being behind the alleged fraud at the Authority, after reports of suspected irregular disbursements, including payments made to ghost facilities, emerged.
Duale claims that he does not own any health facilities or companies that do business with the ministry. He has challenged his accusers to provide evidence.
‘’I challenge any individual to present a CR12 document from the Registrar of Companies that shows my ownership or directorship in the company alleged. I have none,’’ the CS continued.
Duale, however, called for a proper probe within the Ministry, calling for prosecution and surcharge of those found culpable without interference from anybody or any office, including his former colleagues, some of whom own facilities that have been flagged through the system.
The CS also clarified the allegations that the prepayments are unfairly flagged as a fallacy. According to Duale, the system is designed to ensure compliance and accuracy.
NHIF Arrears
Duale also called out Members of Parliament for personalising the settlement of NHIF arrears.
‘’I pose a simple question: are these legislators advocating as facility owners with pending bills? The Ministry of Health is no longer a playground for corruption. It is a battlefield for reforms and the delivery of quality healthcare for all Kenyans,’’ Duale said.
The CS maintained that the Ministry is committed to ensuring the country achieves its Universal Health Care agenda no matter the challenges and criticism.
