The professional body representing pharmacists in Kenya has announced plans to look into an incident involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at a local pharmacy.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) said it will investigate claims that a pharmacist allowed him to be recorded while buying medicine.
The video, which spread quickly on social media, shows Gachagua speaking briefly with a medic at the pharmacy counter. His words cannot be clearly heard in the clip.
However, the recording and sharing of the footage online has sparked concern among many Kenyans. Questions have been raised about whether proper standards of privacy were followed during the visit.
In its statement, Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya described the incident as unprofessional and unethical. The society reminded its members that pharmacists are required to protect patient information at all times.
It stressed that every patient has a right to privacy when seeking medical services, no matter their social or political status.
File Courtesy/TUKO
The society further stated that public figures should not be treated differently when it comes to confidentiality.
According to PSK, trust between patients and healthcare providers depends on strict respect for professional conduct. If patients feel unsafe or exposed, that trust can easily be lost.
PSK warned that if investigations confirm there was a breach of ethics, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against the pharmacist involved. Possible measures may include suspension or other regulatory penalties, depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
The incident has renewed debate about privacy in healthcare facilities. With smartphones widely available, it has become easier to record and share moments instantly.
Many Kenyans online are now discussing whether enough is being done to protect patient confidentiality in medical settings.