The Social Health Authority (SHA) Board has sent acting CEO Elijah Wachira on a 90-day compulsory leave. According to the management, the move is to allow further investigation into his professional conduct and performance even though the man has not been at the helm for long.
SHA Board Chairman Abdi Mohaned announced the decision, naming Robert Ingasira, the current Financial Services Director, as the Acting CEO in Wachira’s absence. Wachira has not commented on his surprise “dismissal” which comes at a time when SHA is facing numerous challenges.
“This is to inform you of the resolution of the board to send you on compulsory leave effective immediately for 90 days to allow for further investigations into your professional conduct and performance as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Social Health Authority,” read the memo.
Abdi said that while on leave, Wachira will be entitled to all his current remuneration and benefits. The board partly attributed Wachira’s suspension to the challenges facing the SHA’s transition from the NHIF. The Board feels Wachira has not been proactive in making SHA work for Kenyans.
Here is the Memo:
According to the minutes from Tuesday’s board meeting, the SHA leadership expressed concerns over rising unpaid bills, which have led hospitals to require cash payments from patients a situation the board says directly contradicts the SHA’s commitment to improving access to healthcare under Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
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