Family Faces Off with County Askari for Disconnecting Dialysis Machine
Chaos erupted at Nakuru Memorial Hospital on Monday when an enraged family confronted and expelled a Nakuru city council worker who allegedly disconnected a dialysis machine from their relative, putting their loved one's life at risk.
As journalists recorded the incident, the family members confronted the employee with forceful inquiries, expressing their disapproval of his drastic actions. One family member demanded answers, questioning the employee's identity and his reasons for fleeing. To de-escalate the situation, the Nakuru County employee exited the premises while engaged in a telephone conversation. Dissatisfied with the employee's unresponsiveness, the family members followed closely behind, persisting with their interrogations. Yet, the employee maintained a steadfast silence.
Unfazed, the furious family persisted in interrogating the staff member regarding his understanding of the repercussions of his behaviour and the importance of dialysis for individuals with kidney problems. At a certain moment, a protestor forcefully brought down the municipal council employee, but his coworkers promptly intervened and saved him. The residents mobilized and implored Governor Susan Kihika to step in and swiftly address the problem. Furthermore, they revealed their plan to bring the matter to the attention of President William Ruto who is set to visit Nakuru today.
"Fortunately, President William Ruto will be in Nakuru tomorrow. As a Senator representing Nakuru County, I will approach him to address the concerns of the Nakuru people, who elected us with overwhelming support, only to face threats to their lives at the hospital. This situation needs to come to an end," Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja declares while condemning the act.
The regrettable incident is a direct consequence of the ongoing dispute between the Nakuru County Government and the hospital's management, both of whom claim ownership and seek control over the facility. Governor Kihika has publicly accused the hospital's directors and government staff of unlawfully taking possession of the land where the hospital is located, which was intended for public use.
"We will persist and will not be intimidated. Public land shall remain public land," she stated on Monday.
Thus far, five individuals have been arrested and charged with various offences, including abuse of power, forgery, and conspiracy to commit fraud, in connection with the ownership contest.