Sakaja’s Allies Accused of Taking Bribes in Health Tender Scandal

Nairobi City Hall has been thrust into the spotlight following revelations of fierce battles over multi-billion shilling tenders within the health department.

Allegations of irregularities, favoritism, and corruption are at the heart of the controversy, with various parties accusing key officials of manipulating the tendering process for personal gain.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s allies allegedly took bribes to award a lucrative health tender. The tender, worth billions, was eventually canceled by the Public Procurement Administrative Board.

The tender was initially awarded to Jubilee Health Insurance, which led to political upheaval, including the removal of then-acting county secretary Patrick Analo.

The health scandal threatens to unravel deeper issues within City Hall, where allegations of graft have plagued other sectors as well. [Photo: Flickr]

Political Shake-up After Health Tender Scandal

The controversial tender may have cost Analo his position. He was replaced by Godfrey Akumali, a man accused of frequently drinking on the job.

Akumali, who claims to be Luhya but is originally from Nyandarua, is rumored to be a heavy drinker, with Viceroy Brandy as his preferred choice. Analo, an alumnus of Makerere University, remained as chief officer of urban planning and development despite the changes.

The tender issue also triggered a cabinet reshuffle by Governor Sakaja, affecting five key county executives.

Stephen Mwangi was moved to the boroughs, administration, and personnel docket, replacing Patrick Mbogo. Other major moves included Brian Mulama, Ibrahim Nyangoya, and Rosemary Kariuki, all reassigned to new roles.

Controversy Around the Cancelled Health Insurance Tender

The health cover expired on July 28, 2024. Afterward, Analo instructed county staff to seek medical care at county facilities like Mama Lucy, Mbagathi, and Pumwani while a new tender was processed.

Kenya Alliance Insurance, unhappy with the tender process, appealed the decision, leading to the cancellation of the award given to Jubilee Insurance.

Initially, Jubilee Insurance won the Sh1.5 billion tender for comprehensive medical insurance and group life cover.

Six companies, including AAR and Madison Insurance, bid for the tender. However, Kenya Alliance contested the decision, arguing that their tender was unfairly disqualified due to technicalities involving audited accounts.

After a review, the procurement board sided with Kenya Alliance, canceling Jubilee’s contract on September 6, 2024.

This scandal has left the Nairobi County government scrambling to finalize a new medical cover as it faces mounting criticism over the mishandling of the tender.