A recent statement by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has stirred a national conversation after she publicly stated that she chose to deliver her child in the United States to avoid being seen naked by junior medics in Kenya.
Speaking during a public event, the governor explained her decision, saying, “I did not want interns or junior medics seeing me naked. That’s why I flew out and gave birth in the U.S.” Her remarks, made in a seemingly light-hearted tone, quickly went viral on Kenyan social media, triggering a flurry of reactions.
Kenyans on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook were quick to voice their opinions. While some sympathized with the governor’s preference for privacy, many criticized the statement as elitist and out of touch with the realities of the average Kenyan woman.
“I delivered at a local county hospital with 3 interns and 2 nurses in the room,” one woman posted on X. “Must be nice to be rich enough to escape public health care and then mock it.”
Others defended the governor, noting that many people regardless of status would prefer a more private birthing experience if they could afford it. “The issue is not Kihika’s choice. It’s the broken system that makes people afraid of giving birth locally,” wrote another user.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) weighed in on the debate, urging public figures to show respect to healthcare workers. “Statements that appear to undermine the credibility of young professionals demoralize an already overstretched workforce,” the council said in a press release.
Junior medics, particularly those in internship and training phases, took to social media to express disappointment. Many shared stories of working tirelessly in maternity wards with limited resources, highlighting the crucial role they play in the country’s healthcare system.
Governor Kihika’s comments have reignited longstanding concerns about Kenya’s healthcare system, especially the growing trend among elites to seek medical care abroad. Critics argue that when leaders opt out of local services, it reflects a lack of confidence in the very systems they oversee.
“Why should any governor be uncomfortable giving birth in the hospitals she governs?” asked political analyst Mercy Achieng. “It’s a sign that even those at the top know our systems are broken.”
In recent years, the issue of medical tourism where public figures seek healthcare outside Kenya has come under scrutiny. While not illegal, it often raises ethical questions about leadership, accountability, and equity.
While some believe Governor Kihika was merely expressing a personal preference for privacy, others see her words as reflective of deeper systemic flaws. In a society where modesty and dignity are deeply held values, especially for women, the governor’s candid remarks struck a nerve.
The controversy also touches on the challenges faced by junior medics, who often work under strenuous conditions while gaining hands-on experience. Many argue that such experience is vital but must be balanced with patients’ rights to privacy and informed consent.
It’s interesting how Governor Kihika’s comments have sparked such a heated debate. While I understand her desire for privacy during such a personal moment, it’s hard to ignore how her statement comes across as dismissive of the hard work junior medics do. Many Kenyan women don’t have the luxury of choosing where to give birth, and her remarks seem to highlight the gap between the elite and the average citizen. The healthcare system clearly has its flaws, but is flying abroad the only solution? Shouldn’t we focus on improving local facilities instead? I wonder if the governor has any plans to address these systemic issues, especially since she’s in a position to influence change. What do you think could be done to make public healthcare more trustworthy and comfortable for everyone?