Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has appointed Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho (or “Ghetto President”), as a member of the Board of Management for Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital. The appointment is for a three-year term, effective from April 16, 2026.
Details of the Appointment
The move was formalized through a gazette notice issued by the Nairobi County Executive Committee Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition, Suzanne Silantoi. It cites Section 9(j) of the Facilities Improvement Financing Act, 2023. Gaucho is one of several appointees to Level 4 and Level 5 hospital boards in the county. Other members named to the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital board include Elvis Meli (Chairperson), Cahma Nzai, Susan Wanjiru Kamau, Knight Medza Kaingu, and Abdalla Ali.
Gaucho, a well-known youth activist and vocal supporter of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Raila Odinga, has expressed gratitude for the appointment. In his response, he thanked Governor Sakaja and noted that the late Raila Odinga had hinted at such an opportunity years earlier. He asked for time to settle into the role, saying, “Give me time.”
Public Reactions
The appointment has sparked significant online debate and backlash:
- Critics question whether Gaucho — recognized more for grassroots political activism than healthcare expertise — is qualified to oversee hospital governance, operations, and advisory functions. Some have called it evidence that “we are a joke” as a country, with memes and jokes circulating widely. Concerns also extend to other appointees, including a musician and individuals with alleged controversial backgrounds.
- Supporters, including the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), argue that hospital boards do not require only medical professionals. Anyone can serve, and the role is about governance and community representation rather than clinical expertise. Some view it as political inclusivity or reward for youth mobilization.
Context
Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital is a key public facility in Nairobi’s Eastlands area, serving a large population. Board members typically provide oversight on management, financing, and service improvement under county health structures. This development fits a broader pattern in Kenyan county politics where appointments often blend political loyalty, youth representation, and governance needs — though they frequently draw scrutiny over merit versus patronage. Gaucho has broken his initial silence and appears open to the opportunity, while the public discourse continues to mix outrage, humor, and defense of the governor’s prerogative. What are your thoughts on this one.
