Roots Party 2022 presidential running mate Justina Wamae has rejected her appointment to a health taskforce by President William Ruto.

In a statement posted on her X account, Wamae noted she could not accept the job offer since she is currently on maternity leave.

“Thank you Mr President William Samoei Ruto  for recognising my strength, capacity, ability and subsequently appointing me to serve in the presidential taskforce on addressing human resources for health vide gazette notice No. 8437 dated 5th July, 2024

“However, after careful consideration, I have decided to decline your offer given that I’m currently on maternity leave and this development would affect my ability to work effectively at this time,” stated Justina Wamae.

This was after President Ruto appointed her to the 18-member taskforce, whose chairperson is  Prof. Khama Rogo while Judith Guserwa is the vice chairperson.

Other members appointed to the taskforce include Dr. John Masasabi, Dr. Toseef Din, Dr. Wilson Aruasa, Doreen Rhoda Kanyua, Prof. Francis Wafula, Dr. Habiba Mohamed, and Lucy Mburu.

Additionally, Collins Kiprono, Victor Miseda, Christine Okoth, Carolyne Mage, Jacinta Rwamba, Dr. Kanyenje Gakombe, Dr. Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, and Benard Ondeng were also appointed as part of the team.

In a gazette notice dated July 5, 2024, President Ruto, also named  Dr. Edna Tallam-Kimaiyo, and Morris Kaburu as two joint secretaries to the taskforce.

According to the president, the taskforce shall be tasked with identifying the legal, policy, administrative and operational constraints impeding performance of the health sector.

The taskforce shall also be responsible for reviewing the performance of Human Resources for Health in the country and recommending areas for improvement.