The Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists Dentists Union (KMPDU) has endorsed Debra Mlongo, who President William Ruto nominated as the new Cabinet Secretary for Health on July 19.
Controversy almost hit the nominee's ascension to the National Executive after it emerged that she was debarred from the medics' directory years ago.
The doctor's union secretary general, Davji Atellah, dismissed the assertion that Mlongo was not fit to occupy the post after an apparent disqualification from practice.
Clarifying the matter, Atellah said the nominee's only mistake was her failure to update her license.
But the fault could be redeemed, said Atellah.
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"Not deregistered. She just delayed updating her license," said the KMPDU SG.
In a statement later, the KMPDU exuded confidence in Mlongo, whom they implied would improve things at Afya House.
"KMPDU Congratulates Dr. Deborah Mulongo Baraza on her appointment as the Cabinet Secretary for Health. We warmly welcome her to the dutiful responsibility of ensuring quality healthcare systems for all Kenyans, including decent work for all health workers," said the union.
The nominee, who boasts over 15 years of field experience, was among the new faces nominated into the National Executive by the president.
She will be taking over from Susan Nakhumicha upon her approval by the National Assembly.
Others are Julius Ogamba (Education), Andrew Karanja (Agriculture and Livestock Development), Eric Muriithi (Water) and Margaret Ndungu (ICT).
The president also reappointed six members of the previous Cabinet.
Kithure Kindiki was brought back to the Interior Ministry, the same as Aden Duale in the Defence docket.
Roseline Tuya retained the Environment docket, Alice Wahome back to Lands and Public Works, and Davis Chirchir moved to the Roads and Transport docket.
Former Trade and Industry CS Rebecca Miano came back as the proposed new Attorney General.
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