“Mlikula Mbuzi Ya Nani?” – Kuria Questions Absence of Mt. Kenya Candidates in SHA Shortlist

Moses Kuria has sparked public debate after raising concerns about the recently released shortlist of candidates for top positions at the Social Health Authority (SHA).

In a tweet on December 5, Kuria highlighted the noticeable absence of individuals from the Mt. Kenya region, commonly referred to as “watu wa Mlima,” in the interview schedule.

He wrote, “Watu wa Mlima walikula mbuzi ya nani jameni?” which loosely translates to, “People from the mountain, whose goat did they eat, really?”

The SHA document outlines candidates scheduled for interviews on December 15 and 16, 2025, for two senior roles: Assistant Director, Claims Management, and Principal Claims Management Officer.

The list features candidates from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Luo, Kamba, Borana, Taita, Somali, Luhya, Teso, Basuba, and Meru communities.

However, few candidates from the Mt. Kenya region—Kikuyu, Embu, and Meru communities—appear on the list. 

The only exception is Meru candidate Michelle Mwendwa Nguu, who is scheduled for the last interview on the second day.

Kuria’s remarks have elicited mixed reactions online. Some users supported his concern, citing potential regional imbalance and bias in public appointments. Others called for emphasis on merit and inclusivity rather than ethnicity.

The Social Health Authority, a newly formed body responsible for overseeing Kenya’s universal health coverage rollout, has not yet responded to the criticism. The interviews will be conducted at the SHA headquarters in Nairobi.

As debates on equity and representation in public service intensify, Kuria’s comments have reignited discussions about ethnic balance in government recruitment. Whether SHA will address the concerns remains uncertain.