The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has come under intense scrutiny after a tragic incident in which a patient was reportedly stabbed to death on Thursday night. The incident has raised serious concerns over security lapses at Kenya’s largest referral hospital, prompting calls for immediate action to safeguard patients and staff.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris took to her X handle on Saturday, demanding accountability and transparency from KNH over the matter. She pointed out that this was not the first time such an incident had occurred, citing a similar case from 10 years ago.
“This tragic event mirrors a similar incident 10 years ago when Cosmas Mutunga, 42, was found brutally stabbed in Ward 8C. Disturbingly, in both cases, the hospital’s CCTV was reportedly non-functional at the time of the incidents,” Passaris stated.
The victim, identified as Gilbert Kinyua, 40, was found dead in his hospital bed with his throat slit. Police and hospital officials confirmed the incident, stating that Kinyua had been admitted to the facility since December 2024. Law enforcement officers who visited the scene established that an intruder was involved and noted that the hospital’s CCTV cameras were not operational during the attack.
The hospital management expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a statement, KNH acting CEO Dr. William Sigilai assured the public that investigations were underway.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the patient’s family during this difficult time. The hospital is working closely with law enforcement authorities and has launched an internal investigation to determine the facts surrounding this incident,” Dr. Sigilai said.
He reiterated the hospital’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
However, public concern continues to mount over the repeated security lapses at KNH. Many Kenyans are questioning how such an incident could occur in a facility that should have stringent security measures. The fact that CCTV cameras were reportedly non-functional at the time of the incident has fueled calls for immediate reforms.
Healthcare institutions are expected to be sanctuaries of healing, not crime scenes. As the investigation continues, there is growing pressure on KNH to implement robust security measures, including functional surveillance systems, stricter access controls, and increased security personnel.
With public confidence in hospital security shaken, authorities must act swiftly to prevent a recurrence and restore faith in Kenya’s healthcare system.
