SHA Acting CEO Elijah Wachira Placed on 90-Day Compulsory Leave

Elijah Wachira, the acting CEO of the Social Health Authority (SHA), has been placed on compulsory leave for 90 days to facilitate an investigation into his professional conduct and performance.

According to the suspension letter, the board stated: “This is to inform you of the resolution of the board to send you on compulsory leave effective immediately for a period of 90 days to allow for further investigations into your professional conduct and performance as the acting CEO of the Social Health Authority. While on leave, you shall be entitled to all your current remuneration and benefits. The board has further appointed Robert Ingasira as the Acting CEO during your absence. Therefore, please hand over the office to him immediately.”

Sources within the organization have indicated that Wachira has hindered efforts to resolve outstanding debts accrued by the now-defunct NHIF for healthcare facilities and to coordinate the clearance of KEMSA’s pending bills, which are crucial for commodity security. Notably, 50 percent of the Ksh 19 billion in pending bills has been cleared in just over a month—a significant achievement since the establishment of SHA.

Concerns have been raised about Wachira's actions, which appear to undermine these efforts and jeopardize healthcare delivery. Reports suggest that he diverted Ksh 1.6 billion intended for settling debts owed to public healthcare facilities, potentially leading to a paralysis of services due to unpaid bills.

Additionally, sources claim that Wachira mishandled the transition of NHIF to SHA and obstructed payments to health facilities, despite available funds and necessary approvals.

As the investigation unfolds, questions remain: What lies ahead for Elijah Wachira? Will he return to his position soon?