The Social Health Authority (SHA) board has sent SHA CEO Elijah Wachira on a 90-day compulsory leave.
In a letter dated Tuesday, November 12, SHA Chairperson Dr Abdi Mohamed directed Wachira to proceed on leave immediately to allow for investigations into his professional conduct.
“The above matter refers. This is to inform you of the Resolution of the Board to send you on Compulsory Leave effective immediately for a period of Ninety (90) days to allow for further investigations into your professional conduct and performance as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Social Health Authority While on Leave, you shall be entitled to all your current remuneration and benefits,” read the letter in part.
Abdi mentioned that Wachira would be entitled to all his current remuneration and benefits while on leave.
The SHA board appointed Robert Ingasira to succeed Wachira. Prior to his appointment, Ingasira served as SHA’s Acting Director, Financial Services.
“The Board has further appointed Mr. Robert Ingasira as Ag Chief Executive Officer, while you are on leave. Therefore, please hand over the office to him immediately,” Abdi added.
Wachira has been blamed for the ongoing chaotic transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) into the authority.
He is also accused of prioritizing payments to private hospitals for services offered to SHA members, at the expense of public hospitals.
Wachira has since denied all accusations leveled against him by the SHA board. He was appointed NHIF CEO in October 2023 and is a seasoned professional in the insurance sector having been the Managing Director of CIC General for four years before he joined NHIF.
The move to send Wachira to compulsory leave comes weeks after the ouster of former chair Dr Timothy Olweny.
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