Embu County Government has taken disciplinary action against a clinical officer and a night guard at Kiritiri Level Four Hospital in Mbeere South after a woman was forced to give birth outside the facility due to denial of entry. The Thursday night incident has sparked public outrage, with residents condemning the county’s healthcare system over alleged negligence.
According to eyewitnesses, the expectant mother arrived at the hospital in urgent need of medical assistance but was reportedly turned away by the night guard. Despite her distress, she was denied entry, leaving her with no choice but to deliver her baby on the veranda without professional help. Concerned well-wishers rushed her to another medical facility, where she and her newborn received the necessary care.
Health County Executive Committee (CEC) Member Jamal Runyenje described the incident as unacceptable, stating that every woman deserves proper medical assistance during childbirth. He announced the immediate suspension of the clinical officer and the night guard involved, emphasizing that the county government would not tolerate any form of negligence in the health sector.
“This is a deeply regrettable incident, and we are taking it very seriously. Healthcare professionals have a duty to provide care and assistance to all patients, especially expectant mothers who are in vulnerable situations. We have suspended the individuals involved, and further investigations will determine additional action,” Runyenje stated.
The shocking incident has ignited public debate, with many questioning the efficiency of healthcare services in the county. Residents have called on the government to improve service delivery in public hospitals and ensure that all medical staff adhere to professional ethics.
Meanwhile, the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Embu Branch Secretary, Macharia Kanderi, has urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and allow the suspended staff to respond to the allegations before a final disciplinary decision is made.
“We do not condone negligence, but we also call for a fair process. The affected staff should be given an opportunity to explain what transpired before any final decision is made,” Kanderi said.
The Embu County Government has promised to enhance oversight and accountability within its healthcare institutions to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Residents are now looking to see if the county will take further measures to improve hospital accessibility and ensure that medical facilities provide timely and quality care to all patients.
