They sought government support in addressing governance, financial, and operational challenges affecting the hospital.
Concerns over internal disputes and mismanagement have circulated for more than a year.
Some insiders had raised fears that the hospital’s substantial monthly revenue could attract external influence, potentially undermining its independence.
Last week, rumors circulated suggesting that the hospital, which operates under the Kenya Hospital Association as a company limited by guarantee under the Companies Act, might be taken over through presidential intervention.
State House clarified that these claims were inaccurate. The statement emphasized that President Ruto’s involvement is aimed solely at safeguarding institutional processes, protecting staff, and ensuring that patients continue to receive uninterrupted care.
“The President’s direction is to allow all institutional processes to follow the law, protect staff, and guarantee uninterrupted service to patients,” the statement read.
According to government sources, the president has been briefed on the hospital’s challenges, including ongoing boardroom wrangles and operational concerns.
The intervention seeks to ensure that all issues are addressed within the framework of the law, maintaining the hospital’s credibility and long-term stability.
Stakeholders have welcomed the clarification, noting that Nairobi Hospital is one of Kenya’s leading medical facilities, and any disruption in governance or financial management could affect thousands of patients.
The emphasis on transparency and lawful processes aims to reassure staff, patients, and the public that the hospital remains independent while receiving appropriate oversight.
President Ruto’s supervisory role also includes monitoring communications and complaints from doctors, patients, and association members to ensure that any systemic issues are addressed fairly.
This approach is intended to prevent disputes from affecting service delivery and to maintain the hospital’s reputation as a reliable healthcare provider.
Experts say the clarification from State House highlights the importance of maintaining the independence of private and association-run hospitals, while ensuring that governance challenges do not compromise service delivery.
The balance between oversight and autonomy is crucial for institutions with both high revenue and significant public reliance.
State House confirmed that the government will continue to follow developments closely, supporting efforts to stabilize management without interfering in operational decision-making.
The objective is to protect staff welfare, maintain patient care standards, and uphold confidence in the hospital’s governance.