Unverified Sources Report: Ruto Demands Concrete Evidence for NHIF Claims Valued at KES 30 Billion prior to Disbursement
President William Ruto has launched an ambitious anti-corruption drive, targeting various sectors of government. In a series of statements, the President has expressed his commitment to ensuring that public funds are spent prudently and that corrupt practices are rooted out.
One of the key areas of focus is the healthcare sector, particularly the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The President has accused the NHIF, which is being phased out, of being embroiled in years of corruption scandals involving questionable claims, inflated procurement, and weak oversight.
The transition from NHIF to the Social Health Authority (SHA) has exposed widespread fraud in hospital claims, according to President Ruto. He has vowed that the government will not use public funds to pay corrupt people and has stated that every claim made by the NHIF will be verified before any payment is made.
President Ruto has also defended the rollout of e-procurement in government, stating that it is key to ending inflated pricing and combating corruption. A preliminary review in six counties revealed systemic theft by hospitals, with some taking money without offering services, according to National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.
Accounting officers are urged to reject pressure from procurement staff seeking to preserve corrupt practices. President Ruto has warned that any hospital found to have stolen from NHIF would face legal action. Some hospitals have reportedly gone to court to block verification, alleging they fear exposure of fraudulent billing.
The SHA's digital reforms are designed to detect fraud and ensure accountability. Similar conduct under SHA would be punished, according to President Ruto. He has also questioned why some hospitals would attempt to block verification, suggesting corruption is involved.
In another development, President Ruto has announced a dairy project for smallholder farmers. The project aims to provide affordable milk to consumers while ensuring fair prices for farmers.
On a separate note, the President has also announced reduced fees for freshers in universities, a move aimed at making higher education more accessible.
The inflation rate for August stood at 6.57%, according to the latest data. The President has reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption in all arms of government, promising a relentless pursuit of those involved in corrupt practices.
In a war of words between Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi and Bishop Obanyi over SHA payment, the details are not clear. However, President Ruto has remained steadfast in his commitment to eradicating corruption and ensuring the prudent use of public funds.
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