• Rangwe MP Lillian Gogo has openly expressed discontent with the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)
• The pain in her voice was palpable as she explained how unfriendly the healthcare fund was to the public
• Kenyans applauded her for her boldness, especially since Ruto was in the same church listening

Kenyans have praised Rangwe Member of Parliament Lillian Gogo for boldly addressing President William Ruto in church.

Her emotional speech focused on many issues, among them the impact of the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) on Kenyan women.

Speaking during a service attended by President William Ruto at the African Divine Church, MP Gogo openly criticized recent government policy changes.

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She particularly expressed disappointment in the government’s move to replace the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) with SHIF.

Gogo expressed frustration over the new health policy, which she argued is overly punitive and places undue burdens on ordinary Kenyans, especially women.

She noted that SHIF has made healthcare services more complicated and costly for women, a demographic that often faces unique health needs.

“Hii kitu inaumiza wamama (this new cover hurts women),” Gogo lamented, underscoring her concerns about the policy.

The lawmaker’s bold address sparked reactions online, with Kenyans lauding her for standing up to the president and speaking on behalf of women.

Many citizens took to social media platforms to commend Gogo’s courage, noting that it is rare for leaders to directly address the president on such pressing issues.

Caroh Maina:

“The fear is gone. We need several people like her to talk to him directly.”

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Chris Mwangi:

“He doesn’t care, but that’s what he’ll meet every day. Hajakuja Nyandarua tumpashe.”

Mshefa Kingpin:

“The fear is gone. This should happen in every gathering he attends.”

Muthoni Kimani

“Now, this is courage; telling Nebuchadnezzar the truth right on his face. Shida ya Nebu ni kichwa ngumu.”

Why Kenyans dislike SHIF

The SHIF, introduced as part of government efforts to overhaul healthcare financing, has faced criticism for its perceived lack of inclusivity and increased costs.

Since its rollout, many argue that SHIF lacks the supportive provisions of the previous NHIF, which citizens relied on for affordable healthcare.

Critics argue that the new policies do not cater to the needs of all Kenyans, particularly vulnerable groups like women and the elderly.

Concerns have also been raised over its potential to restrict women’s access to essential healthcare services, like maternity cover.

Source: TUKO.co.ke