The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has issued an official statement condemning the viral video of Democracy for the Citizens (DCP) Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua buying and taking over-the-counter drugs at a pharmacy.
According to PSK, the act of filming Gachagua in that moment is a grave violation of patient privacy and healthcare confidentiality.
The professional body representing pharmacists in Kenya made its position clear, stating that no individual, regardless of their public status, should be recorded in a pharmacy setting without their consent.
“Recording any client within a pharmacy setting without consent constitutes a serious breach of privacy and healthcare confidentiality,” the statement read, emphasising that pharmacies are healthcare environments where every person is entitled to dignity, discretion, and the protection of their personal health information.
PSK further stressed that confidentiality in healthcare is not a courtesy but a fundamental ethical and professional obligation, one that pharmacists are bound to uphold from the moment they take their professional oath upon qualification.
The society confirmed that it is currently conducting due diligence to establish the identity and licensing status of the outlet involved and the professionals present at the time, noting that appropriate regulatory action will follow if any violation of professional conduct is confirmed.
“This incident reflects ethical gaps in our healthcare system and the critical importance of ensuring pharmacy outlets operate under qualified, licensed professionals who uphold standards.” She urged legal action against violators to deter future breaches,” Mbogo highlighted the wider implications.
The PSK has launched a formal probe that could lead to disciplinary measures, including license suspension.
