Lawyer Willis Evans Otieno has sharply criticised Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja for reportedly paying the medical bills of 81 women who were left stranded after giving birth, pointing to what he sees as the failure of the newly introduced SHA healthcare project and the controversial removal of the Linda Mama program.
Through his X handle, Otieno didn’t mince words, accusing Sakaja of using the current crisis as a PR stunt.
Johnson Sakaja smiles during a past UDA meeting. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
“The abolishment of Linda Mama, followed by the introduction of ‘SHA-uri yako’, and then stepping in to pay medical bills – this is calculated exploitation disguised as kindness,” Otieno said.
“It’s like creating a problem, then pretending to fix it, all for cheap publicity.”
His remarks came after reports surfaced of 81 women who had been caught in a tough spot – unable to pay their hospital bills after childbirth.
These women had previously relied on the Linda Mama program, which provided free maternity care.
Jimi Wanjigi and Willis Otieno
With its end, many found themselves in a desperate situation, unable to afford the basic healthcare they once received for free.
Otieno didn’t hold back, calling out the move as a mockery of genuine leadership. “This isn’t leadership; it’s just a cruel game where the vulnerable are used as pawns for political gain,” he added.
Many people are now questioning Sakaja’s true intentions behind footing these medical bills. Some argue that while the gesture may seem generous on the surface, it highlights a deeper issue – the failure of the government to ensure long-term, sustainable support for the most vulnerable.
As the public outcry grows, it’s clear that the debate is far from over, and the people of Nairobi are watching closely to see how Sakaja responds.
