During her vetting on Thursday, Health Cabinet Secretary nominee Deborah Barasa impressed the Appointments Committee with her approach to addressing cartels at Afya House.
In response to a question from National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Barasa asserted that she has the strength and capability to “manage” the cartels. However, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula quickly interjected, correcting her by stating, “You can’t manage them, you confront them. You are expected to eliminate them.” His comment was met with laughter from the committee members.
Barasa outlined her strategy, emphasizing a focus on prevention over treatment, particularly in procurement processes, to close corruption loopholes. She proposed using a digital platform, open tenders, and independent bodies to oversee the tendering process.
The nominee also pledged to maintain professionalism and integrity in her role. Barasa was the second nominee to appear before the Appointments Committee, chaired by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula. Interior CS nominee Kindiki Kithure was the first to be vetted earlier in the day.
