Gathoni Wamuchomba Admits Misleading Public on SHA, Urges Mount Kenya Residents to Register
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has publicly admitted that she previously spread misleading information about Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA), attributing her earlier criticisms to being “brainwashed” by former political allies.
Now aligned with the ruling UDA party, she is actively encouraging residents of the Mount Kenya region to register for the program, insisting it delivers real benefits despite ongoing controversies.
Admission of Past Misinformation
In a candid and emotional appeal, Wamuchomba confessed that she and others were misled into portraying SHA as non-functional as part of opposition strategy. She described realizing her lack of honesty with the public, prompting her to break away from that group.
“Watu wa Mlima, we were brainwashed that SHA is not working. I was one of them. I realized I was not honest with you, and I left,” she stated.
She claimed this shift immediately branded her a “mole” among her former colleagues.
Accusations of Political Manipulation in Mount Kenya
Wamuchomba accused certain opposition figures—referring to them as “WANTAM brigaders”—of perpetuating a deliberate “scam” to maintain voter loyalty ahead of the 2027 elections. She argued that this politicized resistance has left many in the Mount Kenya area struggling with frequent fundraisers for medical bills, while other regions access funded services.
“Other parts of Kenya are registered and have services paid for. You are left desperate for every opportunity to cater for your sick with fundraisers daily,” she said.
She further alleged hypocrisy, claiming that opposition MPs and senators have quietly updated their own SHA accounts while urging supporters to wait for a new government in 2027.
Defending SHA Amid Operational Challenges
Wamuchomba emphasized the program’s practical advantages, particularly in primary healthcare access for conditions like diabetes and hypertension. She stressed that registration provides immediate rights to care, regardless of political views on President Ruto.
“Fact, SHA is working… Primary health care is your right, whether you like President Ruto or not,” she asserted.
She dismissed the opposition’s position as an “empty dream” that forces citizens to pause their lives until the next elections.
Broader Context of SHA’s Performance
SHA replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) in 2024 and has enrolled millions of Kenyans, with reports indicating over 20 million registrations in some updates. It aims to provide universal health coverage, including screenings and reimbursements.
However, the authority continues to face significant hurdles. An audit revealed losses of approximately KSh 11 billion to fraudulent “ghost claims,” fake admissions, and exaggerated procedures between late 2024 and mid-2025, primarily involving private hospitals. Widespread delays in hospital reimbursements have also been reported, contributing to service denials and the closure of over 1,000 facilities.
Despite these issues, Wamuchomba’s message focuses on urging immediate registration in the Mount Kenya region to avoid missing out on available benefits. Her remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some critics dismissing SHA as ineffective or fraudulent, while supporters highlight successful claims in individual cases.
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Gathoni Wamuchomba Admits Misleading Public on SHA, Urges Mount Kenya Residents to Register