The Social Health Authority (SHA) has appointed Robert Ingasira as acting Chief Executive Officer following the suspension of Elijah Wachira, who previously held the role. In a memo dated Tuesday, November 12, SHA Chairperson Dr. Abdi Mohamed announced that Wachira would be placed on compulsory leave for 90 days as the board investigates his professional conduct and performance.
The memo outlined that Ingasira’s appointment as acting CEO of both SHA and the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) would be effective immediately. “This is to inform you of the resolution of the board to appoint Mr. Robert Ingasira as Acting Chief Executive Officer SHA and NHIF effective immediately as Mr. Elijah Wachira proceeds on Compulsory Leave,” Dr. Mohamed’s statement read.
A letter sent to Wachira further clarified the conditions of his leave. He will remain on paid leave for the 90-day period and will retain his current remuneration and benefits. Additionally, he has been instructed to immediately hand over office responsibilities to Ingasira. Dr. Mohamed wrote, “While on leave, you shall be entitled to all your current remuneration and benefits. The board has further appointed Mr. Robert Ingasira as Acting CEO while you are on leave.”
Wachira’s suspension stems from concerns about his handling of payments to health facilities. According to the SHA board, he allegedly delayed or obstructed payments of debts owed to health facilities, even though funds had been approved and were available. Dr. Mohamed expressed concern that these actions could disrupt healthcare services, pointing to a significant fund allocation of Ksh 1.6 billion intended to settle debts to public facilities.
In a statement addressing these issues, Dr. Mohamed noted, “It is concerning when the Acting CEO takes actions that not only go against SHA’s objectives but also jeopardize the delivery of healthcare services. Despite government efforts to support these facilities, resources earmarked to cover public sector debts were nearly redirected, risking healthcare operations due to unpaid bills.”
The board also criticized Wachira’s role in the NHIF’s transition to SHA, alleging that his actions hindered the agency’s ability to pay debts on time, affecting healthcare providers reliant on SHA funding. The board’s investigation will focus on these issues to determine the next steps for SHA’s leadership.
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