Gakuya details why Ruto cannot fire Duale despite SHA concerns
By William Muthama, September 2, 2025Embakasi North Member of Parliament James Gakuya has shed light on why Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale continues to hold office despite growing concerns over the Social Health Authority (SHA).
Speaking on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, during an interview on a local TV station, Gakuya highlighted that Kenya’s political system provides significant protection for officials who enjoy the backing of the highest authority in government.
Gakuya explained that in the country’s political setup, being part of the system ensures a level of immunity. Officials who have the support of the president are often shielded from disciplinary actions or removal, regardless of public controversies.
“You are only on the wrong side when you are not part of the system. But when you are part of the system, there is one pillar, and that is the highest authority. And if the highest authority does not want you fired, he will make sure that every protection is going to be added to make sure that he protects his team, Health CS Duale is not going to be fired by Ruto,” Gakuya said.
Money and Influence
The MP further highlighted that political influence and financial resources play a critical role in determining the fate of public officials.
Gakuya noted that even when parliamentary processes such as impeachment are initiated, the availability of money can sway outcomes.
He cited previous examples where strong financial backing enabled politicians to withstand motions of removal.
Gakuya also referenced President William Ruto’s influence directly, suggesting that the Health CS’s continued tenure is tied to the president’s decision to protect his cabinet members.
“Even if you bring Duale, it would be just there as a gimmick to mark time and show Kenyans that something is working. But let me tell you, a single strike of the core will neutralise everything,” he added.
Gakuya also placed the discussion in a historical context, comparing Duale’s situation to past attempts to remove other officials, such as former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi during the fertiliser scandal.
He explained that parliamentary moves alone are insufficient without the president’s support. He further noted that impeachment motions often hinge on achieving signature thresholds and that political manoeuvring frequently determines outcomes more than legal or constitutional provisions.