The Senate Health Committee toured West Pokot County to ascertain allegations made by residents concerning the poor state of the health sector in the County. Led by chairperson Micheal Mbito, who is also the Trans Nzoia Senator, he said many issues have been raised before, “There were many issues that were raised but some aren’t true. I don’t want to pre-empt the findings before we discuss the issues with the committee,” he said.
Mbito lauded the County government for utilizing the national government’s funds well, by ensuring the residents get quality services. “With the many challenges faced by this County, I laud the administration for utilizing the resources well,” he said.
Earlier this year residents from the County fronted a petition to the Senate over the deplorable state of the health sector in the County.
The residents called for the immediate sacking of the deputy Governor who also acted as the Health CEC. doubled up as the county executive committee member for health and yet works in America as a Neurosurgeon.
The residents said the deputy Governor Dr. Nicholas Atudonyang had absconded duty, and is mostly out of the country. Last month the EACC also questioned West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo over his absentee deputy and Health CEC.
Immediately after the questioning, the Governor reshuffled his cabinet and Geoffrey Lipale took over health docket. However, West Pokot Governor Lonyangapuo has asked the government to increase the County allocation for the health sector since the sector was fully devolved with little funds.