Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi (right) meets traders at Luanda market /HILTON OTENYO
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has urged President William Ruto to address challenges facing the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying the new healthcare system is experiencing difficulties in meeting public expectations.
Speaking during the centenary celebrations of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church at its Nyang’ori headquarters on Saturday, Osotsi said some operational issues within the SHA structure had left patients and health workers concerned about service delivery.
“As we continue to support SHA, we must acknowledge that it faces notable challenges,” he said.
“I call upon the President to intervene and help resolve the issues hindering the smooth operation of the new scheme so that our people can enjoy better healthcare services.”
The senator cited delays in hospital reimbursements, coordination gaps between national and county health departments, frequent system disruptions, and staff shortages as some of the challenges affecting implementation.
He said some patients had reported difficulties accessing services despite being enrolled, while some hospitals were struggling due to funding delays and claims processing issues.
During the colourful event attended by President Ruto, senior clergy, and other political leaders, Osotsi congratulated the PAG Church for marking 100 years of ministry, describing the milestone as a “remarkable achievement.”
He also supported the church’s appeal for a university charter, saying it would enhance access to higher education and boost development in Vihiga County.
“Granting PAG a university charter would be a significant boost to our county as it would enhance access to higher education and drive local development,” he said.
Turning to security, Osotsi raised concern over rising insecurity in parts of Vihiga, saying it had led to loss of lives and called for swift government action to restore peace and safety.
“The situation has led to unnecessary loss of lives and it is worsening by the day, calling for urgent action to protect our people,” he said.
The senator also expressed concern about the slow pace of government projects and unfulfilled pledges in the county, saying residents felt left behind in national development.
Even so, he reaffirmed his support for the broad-based government arrangement championed by President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, describing it as a step toward unity and shared progress.
“We are now part of the broad-based government because my party leader Raila Odinga has endorsed the plan. We stand committed to working together for the unity and prosperity of our nation and the well-being of our people,” he said.
