NAIROBI, Kenya – The High Court has suspended the recruitment of key positions at the Social Health Authority (SHA) following a petition by the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO).
The union has challenged the legality of the recruitment process, prompting Justice Lawrence Mugambi of the Milimani Law Courts to issue a conservatory order halting the process.
The court order, issued on Friday, prohibits the SHA and its representatives from proceeding with the planned hiring until the matter is resolved.
The recruitment drive in question sought to fill senior roles, including Assistant Director of County Coordination, Director of Benefits Management, and Principal Officers for county and beneficiary management functions.
KUCO, led by Secretary-General George Gibore, argues that the recruitment exercise is unlawful and requires judicial intervention to ensure fairness and compliance with legal procedures.
“The process as it stands undermines transparency and accountability, which are essential in such critical appointments,” Gibore stated.
Justice Mugambi directed that the petition and its accompanying documents be served by the close of business on March 24, 2025, with respondents required to file their replies within three days.
The case is scheduled for a further hearing and directions on April 10, 2025.
The SHA, a key institution tasked with overseeing social health programs across the country, has not yet responded to the allegations.
However, the court’s decision highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding public sector hiring practices and the need for stringent oversight to ensure adherence to the law.
