Teacher sues KNH for detaining two-year-old son over KSh600,000 bill

Gachambi Nderitu for Tv47 Digital November 17, 2022, 11:12 AM

KNH is being sued for detaining two-year-old for six months over KSh 600,000 hospital bill. TV47 — Kenyatta National Hospital located in Upper Hill Nairobi. PHOTO/COURTESY

In Summary

The couple is suing Kenyatta National Hospital for detaining their two-year-old son for six months over hospital bill.

The minor was detained because the parents were unable to settle KSh651,959 hospital bill.

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has been sued for false imprisonment and forfeiture of rights to dignity and health.

A Donholm Primary School teacher, Bernard Muriuki and wife Christine Njeri, are seeking damages for the detention of their son.

The two-year-old was discharged on May 9, 2022 but was released on October 31, 2022 following a court order. The parent's inability to settle his KSh651,959 hospital bill was the reason for detention.

TSC to deduct KSh6,000 from Muriuki's salary

The couple is seeking damages for depriving their son's right to dignity and health as they detained him under deplorable conditions. They also accuse KNH of false imprisonment.

The couple wants compensation from the hospital for the damage this caused to their reputation. They have told the court that they were ridiculed by family, friends and hospital staff who saw them as irresponsible parents.