Controversial activist Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho, has set out his priorities after being appointed to the board of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital in Nairobi, pledging to focus on equal access to healthcare services and stronger representation for residents of informal settlements.
He said his main goal will be to ensure fairness in service delivery at the public facility, arguing that patients should be treated with equal dignity regardless of their background.
“I’m going to make sure that the hospital serves both the haves and the have-nots with the same dignity. That’s my main agenda,” he said. “I’m going to represent the interests of the community people.”
The appointment has generated debate across different quarters, with supporters viewing it as a step toward grassroots inclusion, while critics have questioned his suitability for a hospital governance role.
Responding to criticism
Gaucho acknowledged the public scrutiny surrounding his appointment but said he remains focused on his responsibilities. He argued that criticism is not new to him and should not affect his work.
“I’m not the first and the only one to be criticised,” he said, adding that he intends to remain focused on delivering his mandate.
He said public debate, especially on social media, will not distract him from his duties on the board.
Drawing from lived experience
The activist said his personal journey and experiences have shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary citizens, especially those living in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
He admitted that the role comes with major responsibilities but said his background gives him a clear perspective on the issues affecting patients in public hospitals.
While board members are expected to guide operations and improve service delivery, he said he intends to ensure that the voices of Eastlands residents are well represented.
“With this opportunity that God has given me through President William Ruto and Governor Sakaja, I will make sure that I try my best to ensure that those who are given a tender to supply water or the tissue papers are from the ghetto as well,” he said.
Focus on patients and vulnerable families
Gaucho also pledged to push for support measures for patients struggling to pay hospital bills, saying he will advocate for waivers for those unable to afford treatment.
“I will ensure that the women who are unable to settle hospital bills are given waivers,” he said. “I will be able to help the young people who are unable to raise the medical bills, yet their children are locked in the hospital.”
He further said he will raise concerns about families unable to clear mortuary fees, arguing that such charges often make it difficult for poor families to bury their loved ones.
“I will not be defeated in presenting the matter to the board about the families who are unable to bury their loved ones because of the mortuary fees,” he said.
Commitment to grassroots representation
Gaucho maintained that his focus will remain on improving the welfare of residents from low-income areas, saying his presence on the board is an opportunity to amplify their concerns.
He added that he will not be distracted by online criticism questioning his qualifications, insisting that his priority is to serve the community.
His appointment continues to spark public discussion on how governance roles in public health institutions are assigned and the balance between technical expertise and community representation.