The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has thrown its weight behind President Ruto’s Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), describing it as a revolutionary step toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
However, the Raila-Odinga party is urging the government to fix technological and operational challenges that have plagued its rollout.
The county boss acknowledged that the scheme has faced major teething problems that need urgent resolution.
“SHIF is the best medical scheme we have ever had as a country. Previous governments failed to realise UHC, but this is a bold attempt to achieve it,” Ms Wanga said on NTV and Nation FM during ‘Fixing the Nation’ morning show.
She called on the government to address implementation challenges, including frequent system outages and delays in reimbursing health facilities.
“If we fix the gaps, SHIF will be the revolutionary scheme we’ve always needed. We do not need to go back to NHIF as it was discriminatory. I disagree with anyone advocating for a return,” she added.
Despite the government’s assurances, SHIF has been met with widespread criticism due to system failures, limited benefits, delayed reimbursements and increased out of pocket costs for Kenyans seeking treatment.
Since its rollout on October 1, 2024, many Kenyans have complained that even after registering they are still forced to pay high medical costs for services not covered by the scheme.
This has led to frustration and concerns that the scheme is not meeting its intended objectives, with opposition leaders, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, terming it a scam.
Many healthcare facilities, especially private hospitals, have either limited or completely stopped accepting SHIF payments due to delayed reimbursements from the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Ms Wanga noted that unless these inefficiencies are addressed, SHIF risks failing in its mission.
“We want the government to urgently address system downtimes and slow reimbursements. SHIF is not working as expected due to these technical challenges,” she said on the show.
She also emphasised the need for an enhanced cover structure that ensures fairness in contributions.
“People paying more in contributions should get better coverage. We need a system that is commensurate with the amount individuals contribute,” Ms Wanga added.
Kenyans from different sectors have continued to voice frustrations over SHIF. Many feel that the transition from NHIF was poorly executed and has left millions without access to quality healthcare.
MPs have also raised concerns about the slow approval of patient claims and the lack of clarity on what services SHIF covers.
Parliament has demanded a detailed explanation from the government regarding the scheme’s implementation challenges.
Healthcare professionals have warned that if the inefficiencies persist the country could see a healthcare crisis where access to affordable treatment becomes a privilege rather than a right.
The government argues that it will end corruption and mismanagement that plagued NHIF while ensuring equitable access to medical services. However, skepticism remains high, especially as hospitals continue to reject SHIF patients due to unpaid claims.
At the same time, Governor Wanga dismissed claims that ODM has formally joined the Kenya Kwanza government despite some of its members being appointed to Ruto’s administration.
“There is no formal agreement between ODM and Kenya Kwanza. ODM is not in government, but some of our members are assisting the president in governance matters,” she said.
She reiterated that ODM remains an opposition party and will continue playing its oversight role by holding the government accountable.
Following a recent cabinet reshuffle, several ODM-affiliated politicians including former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho, former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, former party national chairman John Mbadi, Ugunja MP James Opiyo Wandayi and Beatrice Askulwere appointed to various government positions.
Ms Wanga clarified that these appointments were not ODM driven but rather a response to a national emergency following youth-led 2024 anit Finance protests.
“The president tapped some of our members to steady the nation and ODM responded to that distress call. However, this does not mean ODM has joined Kenya Kwanza,” she explained.
She further stated that the party will continue its minority role, advocating for transparency, accountability, and service delivery for all Kenyans.
“As ODM, we will keep pushing for good governance. Nothing stops our MPs from questioning the government and speaking out against injustices,” she added.
She indicated that ODM leader Raila Odinga is consulting party members and the public, after which a formal announcement on the party’s position will be made later this week.
