Former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has downplayed claims that her removal from office was linked to poor performance, asserting that political dynamics influenced President William Ruto’s Cabinet shake-up.
While appearing before the National Assembly’s Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations for vetting as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat, Nakhumicha said the new role marked an upward move in her public service journey.
“From farming in Trans Nzoia to becoming a Permanent Representative, I see it as a step forward, not a step down,” she told lawmakers, adding that she has since returned to farming, engaging in both crop and livestock production.
MPs, however, questioned her record at the Health Ministry, where her tenure was marked by high-profile challenges including a nationwide 56-day doctors’ strike, a mosquito net procurement scandal at KEMSA, and allegations of fraud at the NHIF.
“I was never summoned by my boss over non-performance,” she responded. “Each time I appeared before Parliament or the Senate, I provided satisfactory answers to the questions raised.”
Nakhumicha brushed off criticism from some quarters, attributing it to political interests. She also cited her receipt of the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) as evidence of her merit, calling it the highest civilian honour in the country.
On the timing of her removal, the former CS linked it to the pressure created by the Gen Z-led protests, which she believes compelled the President to reorganize the Cabinet.
“My exit wasn’t due to any individual wrongdoing. The Gen Z movement was unlike anything this country had seen before, and it prompted the Cabinet reshuffle,” she said.
Reflecting on her time in office, Nakhumicha acknowledged the challenges that came with the job, but described them as part of the risks that come with public service.
“Every job has its difficulties, and being a Cabinet Secretary was no exception. I expect challenges in my next role too, but I’m ready to face them with guidance,” she concluded.
