Funyula, Busia County, Kenya – Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has escalated pressure on Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, calling for his impeachment over alleged mismanagement of billions of shillings in the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Sifuna’s Impeachment Push

Speaking at an empowerment programme in Funyula, Sifuna urged MPs to begin collecting signatures to support an impeachment motion once Parliament reconvenes. He claimed the health ministry has presided over large-scale fraud, with funds meant to support vulnerable Kenyans being siphoned through fake claims.

“The signatures are ready. Once Parliament is back from recess, ensure the motion is brought to the floor,” Sifuna told legislators. He said it was unjust that mothers struggling to raise Ksh500 or Ksh1,000 for healthcare were suffering while fraudulent payouts were processed in Nairobi.

Sifuna is working with a youthful opposition bloc known as Kenya Moja, which includes MPs Obadia Barongo, Clive Gisairo, Tonny Kibagendi and Wilber Oundo. The group has warned that if Duale does not step down voluntarily, they will mobilise for his removal.

Ministry’s Response and Digital Crackdown

The Health Ministry has defended itself, noting that healthcare fraud is a global challenge, with up to 30% of medical payouts in Kenya linked to irregular claims. Since assuming office on 1 April 2025, Duale has introduced a digital system powered by artificial intelligence to flag suspicious transactions.

The system has already led to:

• Suspension of 40 hospitals

• Review of Ksh3 billion worth of claims

Duale has insisted that his administration is committed to transparency and accountability, framing the reforms as a necessary step to protect taxpayer money.

Impeachment Procedure

Under Kenyan law, impeaching a Cabinet Secretary requires:

• Support from at least one-quarter of MPs (88 signatures)

• Approval by the Speaker of the National Assembly

• Debate within seven days of tabling

If the motion passes, the president may dismiss the CS or appoint a tribunal to investigate the allegations.

Political Stakes

The push against Duale underscores growing tensions around the SHA, a year-old digital health financing platform that has faced delays in settling claims and mounting public criticism. Analysts say the outcome will test the robustness of parliamentary oversight and could influence public trust in the government’s healthcare reforms.