When hospitals hold bodies hostage: Courts draw the line on unpaid bills
"A body could not be auctioned for default or used to earn rental income in a cold room."
Hospitals are facing growing legal scrutiny over the treatment of patients who cannot pay their bills, failures in emergency care and allegations of medical negligence, with courts awarding damages and ordering facilities to respect patients’ constitutional rights.
One case in the growing legal scrutiny, which spans both public and private health facilities, is that of Erick Migwa, who died at Cana Hospital in March 2026. His family faced a Sh4.4 million medical bill and a fight to bury him.
TSC decision suspended pending determination of a petition challenging the legality of social media restrictions.
Critics say the move negates need to protect and promote the rights of the minorities.
Court also rejects Waititu and Chege's appeal for leniency for their wives.
Chief Magistrate Alego convicted Chelogoi on five counts of fraud early last month.
Discarding quiet roles and defying deep-seated political barriers, serving deputy governors in Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, and Nandi are officially launching bids to succeed their bosses
- body
- hostage
- line
- hospital
- court
- bill
- default
- income
