Deputy President William Ruto has asked leaders to get their priorities right. Dr. Ruto said the coronavirus pandemic had plunged Kenya into serious economic crisis that called for special attention.
This, he said, could be handled by ensuring that healthcare workers, particularly those at the front line, are protected and their issues taken care of.
“To deal with these challenges that threaten our survival, we must start by focusing on how to deal with the health pandemic,” he said.
The Deputy President was speaking in Ainamoi Constituency in Kericho County during the funeral service of Lieutenant-General (rtd) John Koech whom he described as a “bold patriot who faithfully served and defended Kenya with distinction and honour”.
He said it was irresponsible for a section of leaders to claim that some political processes should be completed “before we address the pandemic and the challenges facing medical care workers”.
“We must engage with the leadership of our medics so that we can address the issues that they have raised,” Dr Ruto argued.
At the same time, the Deputy President asked Kenyans to follow the guidelines of medical experts “because of this deadly pandemic”.
Dr. Ruto’s sentiments came as nurses and clinical officers held a vigil in honor of Dr.Stephen Mogusu, a medic who succumbed to COVID 19 on Monday.
In his message of condolence posted on his social media page, Dr. Ruto posted:
“We are saddened by the loss of Dr Stephen Mogusu, a brilliant and selfless medic who was dedicated to deliver critical care and support to our country during this COVID-19 crisis”
He added:
“His death, and that of other healthcare workers, is a demonstration that we must deploy all our energies and resources to protect and save our heroes at the frontline from this pandemic at this particular time. Kenyans too must be protected from this ravage”.
“Our thoughts are with Dr Mogusu’s family, their loved ones and colleagues at this sorrowful moment. Rest In Peace”.