Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is facing fresh scrutiny following a viral church video involving Susan Wanjiru Kamau, popularly known as “Washiko wa Sakaja,” whose role at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital has sparked public talk.
In the widely shared clip, an unidentified woman takes the microphone during a service to introduce Susan in Swahili, stating: “This is Dr. Susan. She has no medical papers or qualifications, but Sakaja gave her a position at Mama Lucy Hospital.”
The camera then pans to Governor Sakaja, who is seen laughing, a reaction that has further fueled online criticism.
Taking the stage, Susan delivered an unapologetic response, “My name is Washiko wa Sakaja… When you see me, you know I am Sakaja’s mother. If you come to Mama Lucy, you will find me there. If you have a problem, ask for ‘Doctor’ Susan. I am up there with my Governor, and we will continue serving wananchi.”
— The Nairobi Times (@TheNairobiTimez) April 20, 2026
Her remarks have reignited a heated debate over cronyism and the integrity of appointments within Nairobi’s health sector.
This controversy coincides with the appointment of other political loyalists, including grassroots mobilizer Calvin Okoth, alias “Gaucho.”
Critics have questioned whether public health institutions should prioritize political influence over professional expertise.
However, Gaucho has since defended his appointment to the hospital board, dismissing the need for academic credentials.
“Being a board member does not require too much education,” Gaucho argued. “It is about representing the community that uses the hospital. I come from this community and understand their challenges.”
He maintained that his role is to safeguard the interests of patients from informal settlements like Mathare and Kayole. “Sometimes a mother cannot pay her bill. As a community, we can engage management to waive it. What education does that require?” he asked.
