Eldoret, Kenya: Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) Eldoret CEO Dr John Kibosia is still in charge of the facility, it has been established.
A memo sent to hospital staff by the Kibosia stated that he was still in-charge at the country’s second largest referral facility.
The memo dated June 19, and signed by Dr Kibosia said: “From Director to all staff MTRH –Executive leader.
This is to notify all members of staff that there is no change in the leadership of the hospital. On behalf of the management team, I wish to urge you to continue working as usual as we strive towards realisation of the mission and vision of the hospital.”
Controversy erupted after a new CEO - Dr Joseph Sitienei -was appointed on Wednesday while the current boss was still in office.
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Dr Sitienei was appointed in acting capacity and even went through orientation with the staff on Thursday expecting to take over from Kibosia.
However, yesterday, the memo was pasted on the facility’s notice boards and copied to heads of departments. It stated that there was no change of guard.
A spot check at the facility showed that services were going on uninterrupted.
Dr Kibosia said his contract runs until December and he is still eligible for another term to serve as the hospital’s head.
In an effort to downplay the confusion, Dr Kibosia said when when the appointment for the acting CEO was made, he was in a series of official functions in Naivasha and Nairobi. Kibosia said there was no cause for alarm.
Dr Sitienei could, however, not be reached for comment as his phone went unanswered. Separately, North Rift young professionals association said MTRH is a huge government facility dealing with lives of people, and there is need to be clear on the chain of command to ensure efficiency in service delivery.
The chairperson of the association Sosthen Bellat, raised concern that the confusion may compromise on service delivery.
“How will medical staff work without a clear chain of command? Who will be accountable for taxpayers’ funds? Patients’ lives are being put on the line,” asked Bellat.
They questioned why there is always resistance and confusion when changes in MTRH’s administration are due.
Absalom Biwot, secretary of the group said: “If the CEO is removed because he is incapacitated or his tenure is over, Kenyans must be informed. We cannot continue spending taxpayers’ money to pay a CEO and an acting CEO.”
Mr Kipkorir Menjo said the hospital is a vital medical facility in Western Kenya and should be run professionally without interference from politicians.
“It is sad when MPs mobilise electorates to resist change, thus affecting service delivery. Tribal interests should not be supported to the detriment of the people and the national good,” said Menjo.
Menjo, said unnecessary political interference was affecting the management of the facility.
