Former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has once again sparked controversy after making provocative remarks during a rare public appearance.
Speaking in Budalangi at the burial of Mama Agatha Maina Namwamba, mother of politician Ababu Namwamba, Nakhumicha told mourners that it was “their time” to fully enjoy the benefits of being in government. She stated, “Hii serikali tuliyomo ni yetu na tuko na haki ya kukula kila kitu kwenye hii serikali. Kwa hio, hesabu yetu ni ya addition and multiplication. Mambo ya minus hakuna,” drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
Her comments quickly went viral, circulating widely on social media and prompting strong reactions from Kenyans online. Some criticized her openly, questioning the message she was sending to young people. Master Kiarie wrote on X, “And that people are cheering when she says that, yet she is just among a few who will eat from this govt.” Another user, JK Muts, expressed shame, stating, “Are these the leaders that our young people should emulate? No. One feels terribly ashamed to be associated with such.”Others, however, interpreted her remarks as unusually candid. Uncle Dan wrote, “The lady is honest… brutally so. It’s their time to loot from us ordinary Kenyans… but not for long.”
These reactions highlight the deep divisions in public opinion when it comes to political leaders and their approach to power and resources.
Susan Nakhumicha has been no stranger to controversy throughout her career.
She first entered the political spotlight when she contested the Trans Nzoia woman representative seat on a Ford–Kenya ticket in 2022, a bid that ended in defeat.
Later that year, she was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Health by President William Ruto, thrusting her into a high-profile national role.
Her tenure at Afya House was marked by turbulence, including repeated clashes with health workers’ unions over delayed salaries and poor working conditions.
Nakhumicha also oversaw the rollout of Ruto’s Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), a program praised for its ambition but criticised for being rushed and poorly executed.
Her time as CS left a mixed legacy, defined by loyalty to the Kenya Kwanza administration, a combative leadership style, and unresolved reforms.
She was later appointed as Kenya’s permanent representative to UN-Habitat, moving her away from direct domestic politics.
Her recent comments come at a time of heightened political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections and recall the divisive rhetoric used by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
His “shareholders” narrative suggested that supporters of the Kenya Kwanza administration had a claim to state resources, a concept that drew widespread criticism for deepening political and tribal divisions.
Although Gachagua later softened his rhetoric under pressure, the narrative continues to resonate politically.
Nakhumicha’s words have reignited debate over entitlement and leadership in Kenya, highlighting how public statements by former officials can stir controversy long after leaving office.
Many see her comments as a reflection of a larger problem in politics, where loyalty to government is sometimes equated with personal gain, leaving ordinary citizens frustrated and disillusioned with those in power.