Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has raised concerns about the prolonged vacancy at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), which has operated without a substantive director-general since 2022.

In a statement shared on July 17, 2026, the senator criticized the repeated use of acting appointments, calling it unacceptable for a key public health research institution.

Omtatah formally requested the Senate Standing Committee on Health to explain the legal basis for the delays, the eligibility of acting directors, and the reasons behind the KEMRI Board's failure to appoint a substantive leader.He emphasized that Kenyans deserve accountable leadership in institutions responsible for public health and medical research.The senator also asked for details on measures being taken to expedite the recruitment process.

The delay has raised questions about governance and transparency in KEMRI's operations, highlighting the need for urgent action to restore effective leadership.This issue underscores the importance of timely appointments in critical public institutions to ensure continuity and accountability.