Gov't orders immediate closure of Ominicare Medical after death of Lucy Wambui

In a notice issued on Saturday, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said that the closure follows investigations which revealed that the facility operating as “Body by Design” had failed to comply with medical regulations as stipulated under Sections 4 and 15 of the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act (Cap 253).

She said the facility would remain closed until full compliance is achieved.

"The inspection found that the facility was operating below the required medical standards, failing to meet patient safety regulations crucial for protecting the health and well-being of patients," stated PS Muthoni. 

"In response, KMPDC has ordered the immediate closure of the facility to ensure public safety until all necessary corrective actions are implemented to guarantee compliance with patient safety standards."

PS Muthoni consequently underscored that a probe into the death of the patient was underway to establish whether appropriate action was taken on those found culpable.

"A thorough investigation is ongoing regarding the institution and the staff involved in Ms. Lucy’s treatment. The Council is examining the extent of culpability and determining the appropriate actions to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents of malpractice," said Muthoni.

Ms Wambui is said to have succumbed while undergoing a cosmetic procedure, triggering a public outcry.

Amid rising concerns expressed on social media, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, along with worried residents, stormed the clinic’s Nairobi offices on Thursday, demanding answers after multiple reports indicated that botched surgeries may have resulted in deaths.

Sonko addressed reporters outside the clinic, urging the KMPDC to take action. "It is all over social media—people accusing this entity of botched cosmetic surgeries. Where is KMPDC? Let them investigate these claims and provide clarity to the public,” Sonko said.

On Friday, KMPDC said it had suspended the clinic over three significant violations among them; Operating Without Proper Licensing, Employment of Unlicensed Practitioners and Failure to Meet Required Health Standards.