Emmanuel Omurunga
Health CS Barasa Apologizes to Woman Arrested During Press Conference
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa has expressed regret over the arrest of Grace Njoki, the woman who interrupted her press conference regarding Social Health Authority issues weeks ago.
Although Barasa stated that she did not authorize Njoki’s arrest, she offered her apologies for the ordeal Njoki experienced. “She may be watching television, and I want to tell her sorry for what happened to her,” Barasa mentioned.
During an interview with Citizen Television, Barasa emphasized the ministry’s commitment to serving Kenyans and addressing their concerns. “We have been employed by Kenyans to serve them,” she said.
The CS highlighted the ministry’s focus on resolving complaints and encouraged a responsive approach to public grievances.
On January 30, 2025, Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai confirmed that the Ministry of Health filed a complaint against Njoki for trespassing and causing a disturbance. However, he assured lawmakers that the complaint would be withdrawn to preserve the ministry’s reputation.
A DCI statement indicated that Njoki was arrested for creating a disturbance at the Ministry of Health Boardroom. Lawmakers sought clarity regarding the specifics of her offense when she protested against SHA’s failures at Afya House on January 15, 2025.
Njoki was among the demonstrators who interrupted Barasa’s briefing and was later released on a Sh10,000 police cash bail.
Stephen Musungu
