Tensions rose at Ruiru Sub-County Hospital in Kiambu County on Thursday, June 18, 2026, after Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a led protesters to the facility demanding the immediate release of new mothers reportedly held over unpaid medical bills.
The demonstrators entered the hospital while chanting, “Mothers are going home today!”
Reports said about 40 mothers were being held in one ward, with at least 24 having remained at the facility for three to four months alongside their newborns because of unpaid bills.
After the protests and public pressure, the mothers were released. Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi promised to settle all outstanding medical bills.
The incident has renewed debate over the controversial practice of detaining patients for unpaid hospital charges.