Nairobi, Kenya – Political analyst and communication strategist Mark Bichachi has announced a temporary suspension of his professional engagements to focus on his health, revealing a prolonged struggle with various ailments and the accompanying financial strain. In a candid social media post on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Bichachi shared details of his health journey, which has included surgery, hospitalisation, and mounting medical bills.

Mounting Health Challenges and Financial Strain

Bichachi's health struggles began over three years ago with intense pain attributed to migraines, hormonal imbalances, and diabetes-like symptoms. In March 2025, he underwent surgery to address an occipital nerve issue, which he identified as the root cause of several of his conditions. While the surgery offered some relief, he continued to manage diabetes and subsequently developed high blood pressure.

The political commentator was hospitalised between Thursday, September 19, and Saturday, September 21, 2025, after experiencing adverse reactions to both diabetic and blood pressure medication. Further medical investigations, including an endoscopy, revealed a Stage 3 hiatal hernia, necessitating another surgical procedure.

Bichachi underscored the overwhelming financial burden, stating, "The cost of medication alone in preparation for the surgery is overwhelming." He also noted that his outpatient health insurance cover had been depleted, forcing him to rely on personal funds and support from friends.

Historical Context of Health Advocacy

Mark Bichachi has previously been a vocal advocate for universal healthcare in Kenya. In September 2020, he urged the government to prioritise and deliver on universal healthcare, emphasising that access to quality medical attention should be a right for all Kenyans, free from corruption. His current situation brings to the forefront the challenges many Kenyans face in accessing and affording comprehensive medical care, even with existing insurance.

Public Appeals and Support Mechanisms

In his appeal, Bichachi acknowledged considering an M-Changa account for fundraising but expressed uncertainty about publicly sharing it. This highlights a common dilemma for individuals facing significant medical costs in Kenya, where public appeals often become a crucial lifeline.

Evidence/Data Box

• Initial Health Struggles: Over three years of intense pain from migraines, hormonal imbalances, and diabetes-like symptoms.
• Occipital Nerve Surgery: March 2025.
• Hospitalisation: September 19-21, 2025, due to adverse medication reactions.
• New Diagnosis: Stage 3 hiatal hernia, requiring further surgery.
• Financial Impact: Outpatient insurance cover depleted, leading to reliance on personal funds and friends' support.

Unanswered Questions and Next Steps

The specific details of the required surgery for the hiatal hernia, including its estimated cost and timeline, remain unknown. It is also unclear whether Bichachi will proceed with a public fundraising initiative through platforms like M-Changa. His temporary withdrawal from public engagements leaves a gap in political commentary, with no clear indication of when he might return.

What to Watch

Kenyans will be watching for updates on Mark Bichachi's health and any further appeals for support. His situation serves as a poignant reminder of the broader challenges within Kenya's healthcare system and the need for robust, accessible, and affordable medical solutions for all citizens. The public's response to his appeal will also indicate the collective willingness to support public figures in times of personal crisis.