Murang’a County UHC health workers have raised concerns over what they term as discriminatory treatment by the county government under Governor Irungu Kang’ata.
The workers, who are part of the Universal Health Care (UHC) program, claim they were left out of the county’s recent end-of-year party and were also denied vouchers, which were issued to employees in other departments such as the Permanent and Pensionable (PNP) staff.
This issue was brought to light by renowned whistleblower Cyprian Is Nyakundi through his official X (formerly Twitter) account. Nyakundi shared a detailed message from a health worker highlighting the plight of UHC staff in Murang’a County.
The worker expressed frustration over the exclusion, stating that UHC employees were told they are not recognized as county staff, despite years of dedicated service.
The source revealed that this discriminatory treatment has been ongoing, with UHC workers receiving vouchers inconsistently over the years.
In 2020, they were excluded, but between 2021 and 2023, they were considered. However, the situation took a turn again in 2024, as they were completely sidelined.
Many see this as a deliberate move to undervalue their contribution to the health sector in the county.
The workers argue that their exclusion not only diminishes their morale but also shows the county government’s disregard for their role in delivering essential healthcare services.
Despite tirelessly working under the UHC program to improve health access, they feel neglected and unappreciated by the leadership of the county.
Critics of the county administration have pointed out that this treatment exposes deeper issues within Murang’a’s governance.
Nyakundi’s exposé has sparked conversations online, with many questioning the county government’s priorities and fairness in treating its employees.
Some have called for an audit of how UHC workers are managed and whether their contracts align with those of other county staff.
The disgruntled health workers now demand justice and fair treatment, urging Governor Kang’ata to intervene and address the inequalities.
They believe their exclusion from the party and vouchers is symbolic of the broader neglect they face.
Many are hopeful that the public outcry, amplified by Nyakundi’s revelations, will push the county government to act and recognize their contributions.
This incident highlights the ongoing struggles of UHC workers in Murang’a and raises questions about the broader state of universal healthcare implementation in Kenya.
It poses the need for equitable treatment of all workers, regardless of their employment status.
Add Comment