NAIROBI, (HAN) — Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Adan Barre Duale, engaged in a heated exchange with members of the Parliamentary Health Committee during a tense session this week, defending his leadership and dismissing threats of removal from office.
The confrontation arose as the committee questioned the minister on alleged irregularities within the Ministry of Health and concerns about the management of public health institutions. Barre, known for his bold political stance, responded defiantly, stating that his position as Health Minister does not define his political life.
“This seat does not determine my life. I have participated in more than 80 ministerial vettings and dismissals in this House. You cannot intimidate me by saying you’ll remove me from office,” Barre told the committee.
“If you want, I can go back to Garissa, win my parliamentary seat again, and return to this very House. Some of you sitting here own health facilities that do not meet legal standards — I can name them — and that’s why you’re burning with anger. But you can’t touch me,” he added.
The session, marked by sharp exchanges, reflected growing tensions between the Health Ministry and Parliament over allegations of corruption, non-compliance in private health facilities, and the implementation of recent healthcare reforms.
Barre’s comments sparked mixed reactions among lawmakers, with some accusing him of arrogance and disrespect toward parliamentary oversight, while others praised his courage and transparency.
The Health Committee is expected to issue a report on its findings regarding the ministry’s performance and possible recommendations for disciplinary action or reforms.
Adan Barre Duale, a veteran politician and former Majority Leader in the National Assembly, was appointed Health Cabinet Secretary in 2024. He has since faced mounting scrutiny over the ministry’s management amid ongoing healthcare system reforms in Kenya.
