A family in Mataani Village, Ngaaie Location, was on Wednesday gripped by a mix of sorrow and relief after finally laying their loved one to rest—16 months after her death.
The body of Priscilla Nyokabi had been held at Kenyatta National Hospital mortuary for over a year due to an outstanding medical bill.
The prolonged agony came to an end following the intervention of Kitui Woman Representative, Hon. Dr. Irene Kasalu, who cleared the bill to facilitate the release of the body.
Nyokabi’s husband, Onesmus Musyoka, expressed heartfelt gratitude during the emotional burial ceremony.
“I don’t know how to thank her. I had tried everything, but it was proving futile. Madam Irene promised to help me bury my wife, and she did. My children and I will forever be grateful to her,” said Musyoka.
Nyokabi was admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital last year, but sadly passed away during treatment. Due to the family’s inability to settle the bill, the hospital detained her body—a situation that left the family in distress for over a year.
Adressing mourner who had gone to collect the body in Nairobi,Dr. Kasalu criticized the national government, blaming the Kenya Kwanza administration for what she described as a crumbling health sector.
“The government we have today is very inconsiderate. Look at the pain and agony Mr. Musyoka and his children have been subjected to just because of an unpaid medical bill. Isn’t that inhumane?” she posed.
She emphasized the need to strengthen healthcare systems across the country, noting that no Kenyan should have to endure such suffering to access or conclude essential medical services.
“Kitui residents deserve better. Health care should be accessible and humane. We must do better as leaders,” she added.
