Governor Nassir moves to restore public confidence in Coast General
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The governor enforced his Executive Order on free treatment for children under five.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Tuesday walked into Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital with a clear message: follow the law or face action.
The governor met hospital managers and frontline staff as the facility faces public anger over the suspension of Chief Executive Officer Dr Iqbal Khandwalla and the death of a patient that triggered protests.
Mr Nassir said the county must restore public trust immediately.
“I held a candid engagement today with the leadership and staff of Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital to reaffirm our core duty: restoring public trust through reliable, compassionate care,” he said.
Free treatment is non-negotiable
The governor enforced his Executive Order on free treatment for children under five.
“I directed immediate and full compliance with my Executive Order that all children under the age of five must receive free treatment in every public hospital in Mombasa. This is non-negotiable,” he said.
He issued a warning: “Any officer who defies this directive will face firm disciplinary action.”
Why the hospital is under pressure
The Coast General board suspended Dr Khandwalla after public outrage over the death of Ali Kibwana.
The family alleged delays in emergency treatment.
The suspension triggered tension inside the hospital.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union issued a strike notice, arguing the process did not follow due procedure.
Doctors have warned they could withdraw services if their concerns are not addressed.
New reporting channel
Mr Nassir announced a new County Call Centre and on-site Customer Care Desks.
Residents will report service gaps directly to his office starting Monday.
“Accountability in health care is not optional, it is the foundation of public service,” he said.
What happens next
Coast General serves thousands across the Coast region.
The CEO suspension review continues.
Union leaders weigh their next move.
The governor insists reforms will move forward.
The immediate focus: free child treatment, tighter supervision, and restoring confidence at Mombasa’s main referral hospital.