Cotu calls for thorough probe of NHIF saga

By Maureen Odiwour

Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has threatened to seek the services of private investigators to probe the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) scam.

Mr Atwoli said they would hire private prosecutors if the Government relaxes in handling the issue due to involvement of prominent personalities.

He vowed to ensure the suspects are arraigned in court irrespective of their status.

“We must speak out against any ills targeting our members without fear or favour and be ready to face any situation anywhere,” he said.

Atwoli called for radical restructuring of NHIF and establishment of more health facilities to manage huge amounts of money expected from the proposed health scheme.

 “After this NHIF will be in a position to prudently manage the huge amount of money expected in the proposed scheme,” said Atwoli.

He was speaking on Tuesday at the opening of 97th Cotu Executive Board meeting at Tom Mboya Labour College, Kisumu, where he criticised the Government for not increasing the minimum wage of employees as promised during Labour Day.

The two-day meeting is expected to examine their progress report, discuss trade unions that had sought affiliation with Cotu and matters pertaining to the forthcoming General Election.

“It is now two months since the promise was made but we are yet to see the implementation,” Atwoli said. The Cotu boss, however, commended the pending appointment of 15 judges to the industrial court; a move he hoped would go a long way to resolve industrial disputes.

“We hope they will be oriented on the principles and ideals of the job to ensure effectiveness like the five currently serving judges” he said.