Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Aden Duale has issued a seven-day ultimatum to all national referral hospitals to submit detailed security and operational audit reports following the brutal murder of a disabled patient at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) on July 17.

Duale made the directive during a high-level crisis meeting convened at Afya House on Monday, July 21. The session brought together CEOs of national referral hospitals, Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, and Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth.

In a statement shared on his official platforms, the CS described the murder and prior lapses in hospital safety as symptoms of deeper systemic failure.

“I emphasized the urgent need for reforms to restore public confidence in our healthcare system, citing systemic weaknesses that require immediate attention,” Duale stated.

Accountability Begins at the Top

Duale put hospital CEOs on notice, warning that they bear non-delegable responsibility for safety, management, and discipline within their institutions. He directed all referral facilities to file audit reports within seven days outlining:

  • Existing security and operational gaps
  • Corrective steps already taken
  • Immediate measures needed to strengthen safety and emergency preparedness

He also ordered all facilities to review or develop crisis communication plans for clear, timely public messaging during emergencies.

“Hospitals must ensure timely, transparent responses during emergencies,” he said.

Strengthening Inter-Agency Coordination

The CS further announced plans for the Ministry of Health to collaborate with the Ministry of Interior to bolster coordination between referral hospitals and local security agencies.

“Leadership at the facility level must actively drive these partnerships,” he stressed.

While affirming continued government support to the sector, Duale said such backing would now be tied to accountability and measurable improvements.

“This support must be matched by accountability and clear, measurable progress,” he said.

The KNH Murder

The new directive follows the murder of a 52-year-old disabled male patient at KNH’s Ward Seven. The man was reportedly found dead in his bed, lying in blood-soaked sheets. Hospital authorities said the circumstances surrounding the killing were unclear. A suspect fled the scene but has since been arrested.

This marks the second patient murder at KNH in six months. On February 7, 2025, a 39-year-old male patient was found with his throat slit inside the same facility. The assailant remains unidentified.

National Outcry and Repeat Failures

The July 17 killing has intensified scrutiny on hospital safety protocols and staff conduct. Duale said rising public concern was justified, citing “institutional culture” and “weak enforcement of staff discipline” as critical issues.

Earlier this month, during the Saba Saba demonstrations, goons stormed Kitengela Hospital, disrupting critical medical services including a caesarean section. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen later decried the release of the suspects on Ksh50,000 bail as “too lenient.”

The back-to-back incidents have sparked nationwide calls for healthcare reform, particularly in securing facilities and ensuring patient protection.

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