Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on teachers across Kenya to push for improved medical insurance, sharply criticizing the Social Health Authority scheme as inadequate and financially strained.
Speaking during a political tour of the Coast region, Gachagua said educators continue to face mounting challenges under the current system, urging them to reject what he described as a burdensome and ineffective healthcare arrangement.
Gachagua said the situation facing teachers reflects broader concerns about service delivery, arguing that critical sectors such as education and health have not received the attention they deserve.
He pointed to unresolved compensation for teachers who marked the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations, saying delays in payments highlight systemic failures in prioritizing educators.
“Teachers are being neglected despite their critical role in the country’s development,” he said. “They must demand a better health cover that guarantees dignity and efficiency.”
The opposition leader further alleged that the scheme owes county governments more than KSh8 billion, raising questions about its sustainability and capacity to deliver quality healthcare services.
Opposition pressure rises in Coast tour
The remarks were made during the United Alternative Government three day Meet the People tour of Kwale and Mombasa counties. The tour has seen opposition leaders intensify criticism of the current administration, particularly on governance and public service delivery.
Gachagua accused the government of lacking a clear development agenda for the Coast region, instead focusing on political activities at the expense of meaningful projects.
“There is no meaningful development plan for this region,” he said. “What we are seeing instead is mismanagement and misplaced priorities.”
The delegation visited Samburu, Mazeras, and Msambweni in Kwale County, as well as Likoni in Mombasa, where they addressed residents and outlined their concerns.
Beyond healthcare and education, Gachagua raised concerns over security, accusing authorities of tolerating politically motivated violence. He claimed that organized groups were being used to intimidate opponents and interfere with private property.
He cited a recent incident in Nairobi Runda area where private land was reportedly invaded, calling on the Inspector General of Police to ensure protection of citizens and their property.
“All Kenyans deserve security regardless of political affiliation,” he said. “Law enforcement must remain impartial and uphold the rule of law.”
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who accompanied Gachagua on the tour, echoed the concerns, warning that security officers implicated in misconduct would be held accountable under a future administration.
The opposition team concluded the first day of engagements with renewed calls for reforms in healthcare, education, and governance. They are expected to continue with rallies scheduled in Nyali and Tononoka.
Analysts say the Coast tour signals a broader strategy by opposition leaders to consolidate support by highlighting service delivery gaps and mobilizing key constituencies such as teachers.
As debate over the health scheme intensifies, teachers unions and stakeholders are expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare provision in the education sector.
