Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is facing mounting criticism after naming new members to county hospital boards, a move that has sparked public debate.
Among the controversial appointments is Calvince Okoth, widely known as Gaucho or “Ghetto President,” who has been selected to join the board of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital. Gaucho, a well-known grassroots mobiliser and outspoken supporter of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, was listed among six appointees in a gazette notice dated Friday, April 17, 2026.
The notice, issued by County Executive Committee Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition Suzanne Silantoi, confirmed that the appointees will serve a three-year term. It stated that the appointments were made under powers granted by Section 9(j) of the Facilities Improvement Financing Act, 2023, and took effect from April 16, 2026.
“In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 9(j) of the Facilities Improvement Financing Act, 2023, the County Executive Committee Member responsible for Health Services in Nairobi City County hereby appoints the listed persons as members of the respective Nairobi County Level 4 and Level 5 Hospital Boards, with effect from April 16, 2026, for a term of three (3) years,” read part of the notice.
Other individuals named to the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital board include Elvis Meli, who will serve as chairperson, alongside Cahma Nzai, Susan Wanjiru Kamau, Knight Medza Kaingu and Abdalla Ali.
The inclusion of Gaucho has, however, triggered strong reactions from sections of the public. Critics have questioned his suitability for the role, arguing that his political activism may not align with the technical demands of managing healthcare institutions.
Some Kenyans have raised concerns over how he will engage with medical professionals and contribute to discussions on improving healthcare services within the county.
