President William Ruto has suspended Dr. Swarup Mishra from his position as chair of the Kenya BioVax Institute with immediate effect.

The suspension comes as investigations are launched into serious allegations of unethical and illegal activities related to kidney transplant procedures at Mediheal Hospital and Fertility Centre in Eldoret, a facility founded by Dr. Mishra. The government’s action will remain in force pending the outcome of these investigations.

The statement emphasizes that the President’s decision is part of a broader commitment to fight corruption and uphold integrity in the healthcare sector. It also highlights the government’s dedication to public safety and justice for victims, reaffirming the importance of transparency and accountability in public service.

“The President reaffirms the Government’s commitment to fighting corruption, including upholding integrity in healthcare, public safety, and justice for victims,” the statement reads.

On Thursday, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale ordered the immediate suspension of all kidney transplant services at Mediheal Group of Hospitals following the allegations of malpractice and ethical violations and announced the formation of an Independent Expert Committee to audit Mediheal’s kidney transplant operations over the past five years.

Speaking at Afya House, Duale said the decision was prompted by complaints surrounding transplant procedures at Mediheal’s Eldoret branch.

The committee will review governance structures, clinical practices, ethical compliance, and patient safety protocols, and is expected to submit its report within 90 days.

The CS further suspended Dr Maurice Wakwabubi, the acting head of the Kenya Blood Transfusion and Transplant Services (KBTTS), and Dr Everlyne Chege, who chaired a prior internal investigation into the matter in December 2023.

In the interim, Dr Martin Sirengo will serve as the head of KBTTS.

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