Fresh controversy has emerged surrounding the leadership of The Nairobi Hospital, with insiders claiming that members of the hospital’s board are living in fear amid alleged intimidation and a growing struggle for control of the multi-billion-shilling medical institution.
Reports indicate that the name of William Ruto has been mentioned in several high-level meetings where senior government operatives are said to have pushed for major changes within the hospital’s board.
Claims of Pressure from State Officials
According to sources familiar with the discussions, the chair of the Nairobi Hospital board, Dr Barcley Onyambu, was summoned to Harambee House on March 9, 2026.
During the meeting, Onyambu was reportedly instructed to create three vacancies within the hospital’s board. Sources claim he was given names of individuals who should fill the positions and was told the changes were expected to be implemented within a week.
The officials who attended the meeting were described as individuals linked to the office of Felix Koskei.
These claims have surfaced amid a long-running internal conflict within the hospital’s leadership, with insiders saying tensions have been building for more than a year.
Atmosphere of Fear Within the Board
Members of the board are reportedly operating in what sources describe as an “atmosphere of intimidation.”
According to insiders, some board members fear possible arrest or legal action as pressure mounts over the hospital’s governance.
The recent arrest of Dr Job Obwaka has been cited as a turning point in the dispute.
Sources also claim that several meetings discussing the management of the hospital have been held at State House Nairobi and Harambee House.
During one such meeting, a senior official reportedly stated that although Nairobi Hospital is a private facility, it has “a public character.”
Board Changes and Internal Communications
Internal hospital communication reviewed by journalists indicates that board adjustments had already begun earlier this year.
In a memo dated February 6, 2026, the hospital’s company secretary Gilbert Nyamweya announced the co-option of Dr Sylvester Okumu Kasuku and Moses Agoi Ondaba into the board.
Sources allege that the two names were submitted through channels linked to Harambee House.
Insiders further claim there is pressure to make up to nine changes within the 14-member board. Such changes would effectively shift majority control over key decisions regarding the hospital’s management and strategic direction.
Ownership Structure at the Center of the Dispute
The Nairobi Hospital is managed by the Kenya Hospital Association, a membership-based entity with more than 3,000 members.
The association operates as a company limited by guarantee under Kenya’s Companies Act.
However, sources say there is growing pressure to convert the institution into a company limited by shares, a move that could significantly alter ownership and governance of the hospital.
This proposal has become a major flashpoint in the dispute.
High Financial Stakes
Despite being a non-profit association, insiders estimate that the hospital generates between KSh1.5 billion and KSh1.6 billion in monthly revenue, making control of the institution highly valuable.
Some board members claim they have faced threats of arrest linked to allegations of money laundering.
Investigations have reportedly focused on 34 vehicles suspected to be linked to alleged illicit financial activity. However, the hospital has maintained that many of the vehicles belong to staff members.
The arrests of Dr Job Obwaka and Samson Kinyanjui are now being viewed by some insiders as part of a broader attempt to gain influence over the hospital’s leadership.
Growing Scrutiny
The unfolding dispute has raised questions about governance at one of Kenya’s most prominent private hospitals and whether political pressure is influencing its management.
As tensions continue to build, stakeholders within the Kenya Hospital Association and the wider medical community are closely watching developments that could reshape the future of the prestigious healthcare institution.
