Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime has dismissed the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Health, Gifton Mkaya, following mounting pressure from journalists and the public.
The move comes just days after a group of journalists staged demonstrations outside the county assembly, demanding Mkaya’s removal over remarks that were deemed discriminatory against the media, threatening press freedom.
In a statement released on February 24, Governor Mwadime stated that the decision was made to improve efficiency and service delivery in the county’s health sector.
“The Office of the Governor wishes to inform all county departments, stakeholders, and the public that, effective February 24, 2025, Mr. Gifton Mkaya has been dismissed from his position as County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services in accordance with Section 31(a) of the County Governments Act,” part of the statement read. “This action has been taken to enhance efficiency and ensure better healthcare service delivery in Taita Taveta County.”
Following Mkaya’s dismissal, the governor assigned the health docket to the Deputy Governor, who will now oversee the administration, coordination, and execution of all health-related policies, programs, and services in the county.
Journalists’ Protests Triggered Action
The decision to fire Mkaya followed a protest by over 30 journalists on February 17. The media professionals had issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding an apology from Mkaya over statements he made that were seen as undermining the press.
According to reports, Mkaya had imposed an outright ban on journalists and publicly declared that he would not work with them. His comments sparked outrage, with journalists arguing that such hostility hindered their ability to report freely and serve the public with accurate information.
During the demonstrations, media representatives voiced their concerns, emphasizing the need for a free and fair working environment without threats or intimidation.
“The CECM for Health has taken an aggressive stance against the media, attempting to silence and intimidate journalists in an effort to escape scrutiny. We will not allow this to happen,” one journalist from Taita Taveta stated.
Beyond Mkaya’s controversial remarks, journalists also raised concerns about safety while covering county affairs. One reporter claimed that his camera equipment was damaged while reporting at Moi County and Referral Hospital, yet the Media Council of Kenya had not taken any action regarding the matter.
With Mkaya’s dismissal, journalists and the public are now calling for a more open and transparent working relationship between county officials and the media, ensuring that press freedom is upheld and respected.
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