Another Patient Killed Inside KNH Ward, Prompting Outcry Over Safety

 

By Vivian Anyango

Tension has gripped Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) following the death of yet another patient under suspicious circumstances inside one of the hospital’s wards. The disturbing incident, which took place on Wednesday night, has reignited public concern over the safety and security of patients at the country's largest referral and teaching hospital.

According to preliminary reports, the male patient was found dead in his hospital bed on Thursday morning, bearing visible signs of struggle. Witnesses in the same ward recounted hearing a commotion during the night but mistook it for a medical emergency. The grim discovery was only made during the routine morning nurse rounds.

KNH management has since confirmed the death, stating that investigations are ongoing. Police officers have cordoned off the affected ward and are currently reviewing CCTV footage to determine the sequence of events and identify the suspect.

While details remain scarce, early indications point to possible foul play. “We are cooperating fully with the police. Our priority is the safety and well-being of all patients,” said a hospital spokesperson in a brief statement issued Thursday afternoon.

This incident comes barely a month after another unsettling case where a psychiatric patient reportedly attacked and injured a fellow patient within the facility. The recurrence of such violent episodes has sparked public outrage and mounting pressure on the Ministry of Health to act decisively.

Family members of the deceased are demanding answers. “We brought our brother here to be treated, not to die under mysterious circumstances. The hospital failed to protect him,” said one relative, holding back tears outside the facility.

Healthcare workers have also voiced alarm, expressing fear and frustration over the growing insecurity within KNH wards. Several nurses and doctors have called for an urgent review of mental health protocols and the deployment of additional security personnel in sensitive areas of the hospital.

Civil society groups and health rights activists have joined the call, urging the government to take immediate steps to restore public confidence in the national referral system. “What’s happening at KNH is a national emergency. Patient safety must never be compromised,” said Wanjiku Mwangi, a spokesperson for HealthWatch Kenya.