The Social Health Authority (SHA) Board has placed Acting CEO Elijah Wachira on a 90-day compulsory leave to facilitate a comprehensive review of his professional conduct and performance, despite his relatively brief tenure.
SHA Board Chairman Abdi Mohaned announced this decision, appointing Robert Ingasira, the current Financial Services Director, as Acting CEO during Wachira’s absence. Wachira has yet to comment on the unexpected leave, which comes amid significant challenges facing SHA.
A memo addressed to Wachira stated, “This is to inform you of the board’s resolution 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 the Social Health Authority.”
Chairman Mohaned confirmed that Wachira would retain his full remuneration and benefits during the leave period. The board partly linked his suspension to the difficulties in SHA’s transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), citing a lack of proactive leadership. The board’s concerns, detailed in minutes from Tuesday’s meeting, highlighted rising unpaid bills that have led hospitals to demand cash payments from patients—an issue that, according to the board, undermines SHA’s mission to enhance healthcare access under Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
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