Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has explained the real reason behind the county’s popular free health programme, BabaCare.
The governor said the programme is not just about free treatment, but about keeping the legacy of the late ODM leader Raila Amolo Odinga alive.
Speaking in Timbwani, Likoni, during the Onagi umbrella fundraiser on Monday, October 26, Nassir said BabaCare was inspired by the principles Raila fought for his entire political life.
“When we say we love Raila and that we love the ODM party, we are not just talking. We are speaking through our words and our actions,” Nassir told the Likoni crowd.
Raila’s anniversary
He said the county introduced BabaCare in October as part of Mwezi wa Baba, a month-long initiative to honour Raila and celebrate values he stood for – dignity, equality, social justice and people–centred governance.
Nassir linked BabaCare to Raila Odinga Principles, saying, “We are Students of Baba”.
The governor said supporting Raila should go beyond slogans, insisting BabaCare is Raila’s manifesto in action.
Nassir challenged leaders and supporters who claim to love Baba to show it through actions.
The ODM leader said Raila’s tribute in October has now been extended until November 30 after overwhelming demand from residents.
He noted that his administration decided to translate Raila’s manifesto into something residents can feel in hospitals.
“We are saying that we are students of Baba,” he added.
The governor said BabaCare is a practical example of Raila’s emphasis on social justice and improving the welfare of ordinary mwananchi.
BabaCare is free
The programme provides free services across all Mombasa County health facilities.
Nassir also put health workers on notice. He urged residents to report anyone demanding payment for services covered under BabaCare through the county’s toll-free hotline.
The county boss insisted that true loyalty to Raila is demonstrated in how leaders serve the public.
“Let us not love Baba through words alone; let us love Baba through our actions,” he said.
He said those who claim to have walked with the late ODM leader should ensure his principles continue to influence how they lead.
The remarks came months after Raila’s death, as leaders across ODM continue to craft ways to honour his legacy beyond politics.
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