According to an internal memo by Health CS Susan Wafula, Dr. Patrick Amoth will continue to serve as the acting Director General of Health Services. Dr. Amoth has been the government’s chief technical advisor for more than four years, in addition to serving as the chairperson of the World Health Organization’s Executive Board.
However, there has been a debate surrounding his lengthy tenure in an acting capacity since he took over from Dr. John Masasabi, and questions have been raised as to why he was never confirmed as Director General.
Then-Health CS Mutahi Kagwe was summoned to explain this to the Senate Health Committee in March 2022, and he stated that the Public Service Commission delayed approval of the proposed organizational structure and staff establishment needed to fill the position.
The PSC eventually announced his position in June 2022, but the reason for the delay in confirmation remains unclear.
CS Wafula has also announced several other changes, including the appointment of Dr. Zainab Gura as the deputy director general of the state Department of Medical Services, and Dr. Sultani Matendechero as the deputy director general of Public Health and Professional Standards. Other officers have been transferred or appointed to new directorates.
These changes will take effect from April 19, 2023, with all officers serving in an acting capacity.
