Uproar as Sakaja Appoints Gaucho to Mama Lucy Hospital Board

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration has appointed Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho or “Ghetto President,” to the board of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital.

Gaucho, a vocal supporter of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and known for his grassroots political activism, was named among six members in a gazette notice dated Friday, April 17, 2026.

The notice, issued by County Executive Committee Member for Health, Wellness and Nutrition Suzanne Silantoi, confirmed the appointments for a three-year term.

“In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 9(j) of the Facilities Improvement Financing Act, 2023, the County Executive Committee Member responsible for Health Services in Nairobi City County hereby appoints the listed persons as members of the respective Nairobi County Level 4 and Level 5 Hospital Boards, with effect from April 16, 2026, for a term of three (3) years,” read part of the notice.

Other members appointed to the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital Board include Dr Elvis Meli (Chairperson), Dr Cahma Nzai, Susan Wanjiru Kamau, Knight Medza Kaingu and Abdalla Ali.

Mixed Reactions Following Gaucho’s Appointment

The appointment has sparked mixed reactions online, with some congratulating Okoth while others questioned the decision.

A social media user, Anyang Deng, welcomed the move, saying: “Congratulations, Gaucho Calvince Okoth. Sakaja has rewarded you with a board member position at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital. Bring your expertise to serve the people of Nairobi.”

However, critics expressed concern over the criteria used in the appointment.

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“Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital board appointments should prioritise competence. This raises serious questions,” wrote another user, Muketha Dan.

Journalist Samaso Ole Taliani also weighed in, questioning whether merit was considered: “Are public appointments about competence or connections? Hospital boards shape decisions that affect lives. Kenyans deserve transparency, merit and accountability.”

A medic, Ibrahim Umar, criticised the move, alleging that professionalism had been overlooked.

About Gaucho

Okoth rose to prominence through Bunge la Wananchi forums, informal public gatherings where citizens debate political and social issues.

He became widely known for his outspoken views, particularly at Jacaranda Grounds in Embakasi East and Jeevanjee Gardens in Nairobi’s CBD.

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His popularity grew on social media during and after the 2022 general elections.

His strong support for ODM and close association with the late veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga have made him a recognisable figure in Kenya’s political landscape.

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Nairobi County Governor Sakaja speaking at a past public event. PHOTO/Sakaja/X