Amoth should win Health DG job unless he fumbles - CS Nakhumicha

According to CS Nakhumicha, the appointment of leaders in the health sector has been crooked since the provisions stipulated in the Health Act have not always been observed.

"Other cadres, the nurses are saying we can also make good director generals [also] the clinical officers, nutritionists. Now that space has been opened up and based on that expansion these other cadres can apply," she told KTN on Wednesday night.

She therefore noted that the advertisement by the Public Service Commission (PSC) is lawfully valid and it does not sideline Dr. Amoth.

Nakhumicha said that the advertisement should instead provide an avenue for Amoth to rightfully and officially secure the position.

"Amoth is applying as well and I have confidence, given the experience that he has he should emerge as the best unless he fumbles during the interviews," noted Nakhumicha.

"He has great experience he should be ahead of the pack."

The Health Ministry boss added that she wanted to appoint Amoth and other acting officers in the ministry when she took office but her "hands are tied by the law."

Section 16 (parts 2 and 3) of the Health Act provides the legal framework for appointing a Health DG.

"...(he) shall be recruited by the Public Service Commission through a competitive process, vetted by Parliament and appointed by the Cabinet Secretary."

A person appointed to the position must "be a medical practitioner registered by the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board, be a holder of a Masters degree in public health, medicine or any other health related field, have experience of at least 10 years in management of health services (five of which must be at a senior management position).

The position has been re-advertised by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and those who had applied earlier have been advised to make fresh applications.