KMPDC orders closure of Chiromo Braeside hospital over patient death
By Mustafa Juma, July 25, 2025The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has ordered the immediate evacuation of all patients and suspension of clinical services at Chiromo Hospital Group’s Braeside Branch in Lavington, Nairobi.
The drastic directive follows an ongoing investigation into the death of Susan Kamengere Njoki, with reports indicating the possible involvement of a hospital staff member.
In a letter dated July 25, 2025, and addressed to the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, which was shared on X by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, the Council instructed that all patients must be evacuated within 24 hours of receiving the letter.
Furthermore, the hospital has been ordered to cease all clinical operations at the facility until further notice.
“The above captioned subject, our letter referenced Ref: KMPDC/DEC.GEN/2025/21 and the Council inspection of your facility on 18th July, refer. Following further reports indicating the possible involvement of a member of your staff in the death of Ms. Susan Kamengere Njoki, the Council issues the following directives effective immediately,” the letter read in part.
Hospital inspection
The council’s decision comes after an inspection carried out on July 18 and follows concerns raised in an earlier communication referenced as KMPDC/DEC.GEN/2025/21.
The Council has also demanded that Chiromo Hospital respond to their letter without delay, providing copies of postmortem reports, all relevant patient records and documentation, and a report detailing steps the hospital is taking to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Council stated that these actions are taken under the authority of CAP 253 and Legal Notice 171—The Medical Practitioners and Dentists (Inquiry and Disciplinary Proceedings) (Procedure) Rules 2022, Rule 8.
Safety of patients
The aim is to ensure the safety of patients and restore public confidence in the healthcare system.
Dr. David G. Kariuki, the CEO and Registrar of KMPDC, signed off the letter, reiterating the Council’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of care and ensuring accountability within the health sector.
The Chiromo Hospital Group has yet to issue a public statement in response to the shutdown and ongoing investigation.
“These directives are issued pursuant to CAP 253 and subsidiary legislation legal notice 171, The Medical Practitioners and Dentists (Inquiry and Disciplinary Proceedings) (Procedure) Rules 2022, Rule 8 to ensure patient safety and restore public confidence in the health system,” the letter read.
“The Council remains committed to ensuring patient safety and upholding of the highest standards of care.”
