The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health has summoned Mediheal Group of Hospitals over concerns about its kidney transplant program, amid allegations of possible organ harvesting and irregularities in patient recruitment.
Seme MP Dr. James Nyikal chairs the committee.
During a hearing, members questioned Dr. A. Srinivas Murthy, Chief Consultant Nephrologist at Mediheal, on the hospital’s transplant procedures, donor sourcing, and compliance with medical ethics.
Dr. Murthy denied any wrongdoing, saying all transplants at Mediheal follow Kenyan law. “There is no organ harvesting happening in Mediheal or anywhere else in Kenya to my knowledge,” he said.
He explained that kidney donations in Kenya come only from willing relatives or close acquaintances, unlike countries such as India or the United States, which have government-regulated deceased donor programs.
He added that the lack of a deceased donor system disadvantages patients without suitable living donors.
Endebes MP Dr. Robert Pukose raised concerns about inconsistencies in patient affidavits, particularly for foreign patients who entered Kenya on medical visas.
Citing a Swiss patient, Maurice Nicholas Antonio, Dr. Pukose said, “If the patient came on a medical visa, it means he was already diagnosed abroad. But the documents show the illness was discovered here. That does not add up.”
Dr. Murthy explained that some patients arrive before starting dialysis, and their conditions are confirmed or worsened after arrival.
“Many come with kidney disease but are not yet on dialysis. We counsel and start dialysis if necessary before transplantation,” he said.
Lawmakers also questioned the involvement of Kenyan specialists in the program.
Mediheal Chairperson Dr. Swarup Mishra said the hospital initially relied on Indian experts but has since trained local nurses and technicians.
“When we started, we had Indian renal and ICU nurses. But after technology transfer, all nurses are now Kenyans,” he said, noting that it remains challenging to attract full-time local nephrologists.
Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi called for a review of Kenya’s legal framework on organ donation. Dr. Nyikal confirmed that a Transplant and Organ Donation Bill is currently under review by the Budget and Appropriations Committee.
Dr. Mishra condemned misinformation on social media accusing Mediheal of organ trafficking.
“False statements were made in 2018, 2019, and 2021. We took legal action. It’s time to treat Africans in Africa,” he said.
The committee will continue reviewing documents and affidavits before releasing its findings.
“We will scrutinize every document carefully,” said Dr. Nyikal.
“If necessary, we may call back witnesses, including some of the patients.”
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