The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya has launched an investigation into a pharmacist accused of secretly recording former Deputy President and Democratic Congress Party leader Rigathi Gachagua inside a pharmacy without his consent.
The video, which surfaced online and quickly went viral on social media platforms, shows Gachagua inside the pharmacy premises engaging in what appears to be a routine transaction or conversation. The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya described the recording as a gross violation of patient confidentiality and the professional ethical obligations binding all licensed pharmacists.
In a strongly worded statement issued on February 22, 2026, PSK President Dr. Wairimu Mbogo condemned the incident and reaffirmed the society’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of privacy in healthcare settings. “PSK wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that recording any client within a pharmacy setting without consent constitutes a serious breach of privacy and healthcare confidentiality,” Dr. Mbogo said. “Regardless of public profile or status, every Kenyan has the right to confidential healthcare. We therefore extend our regret over the apparent breach of privacy that has occurred.”
The society emphasised that the ethical code of conduct for pharmacists explicitly prohibits the capture, storage or dissemination of images, audio or video of clients without explicit informed consent. “Every Kenyan has the right to dignified and discreet healthcare,” the PSK statement continued. “The act undermines public trust in the profession and exposes vulnerable individuals to unnecessary scrutiny or harm.”
Dr. Mbogo confirmed that the PSK has already commenced a formal disciplinary process against the pharmacist involved. The society is verifying the licensing status of the outlet where the incident occurred and will cooperate fully with any relevant regulatory or law enforcement bodies if criminal elements are established. “We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness,” she added. “If the pharmacist is found culpable, appropriate sanctions will be applied in accordance with our disciplinary procedures, which may include suspension or revocation of licence.”
The viral nature of the video has amplified public debate on privacy rights in healthcare settings. Many Kenyans expressed outrage online, arguing that even public figures deserve protection from unauthorised recordings during private or semi-private moments such as purchasing medication. Others defended the recording as a matter of public interest, given Gachagua’s political profile and recent controversies surrounding his impeachment and activities.
Gachagua has not issued a formal statement on the incident, but close associates indicated he views the recording as a deliberate attempt to embarrass him and is considering legal options. One ally said: “This is not just about Rigathi; it is about every Kenyan who expects privacy when seeking medical services. Pharmacies are not public stages.”
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board, which regulates the practice of pharmacy in Kenya, has been notified and is expected to conduct its own parallel inquiry into the conduct of the outlet and the pharmacist. The board’s guidelines reinforce the PSK position that patient interactions must remain confidential unless disclosure is legally required or consented to.
The case has reignited broader discussions on digital privacy, consent and the ethical use of mobile phones in sensitive environments. Consumer rights groups have called for clearer guidelines on recording in pharmacies, while some pharmacists have expressed concern that the incident could erode public confidence in community pharmacies as safe spaces for health consultations.
The PSK reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on breaches of confidentiality. “Pharmacists are entrusted with sensitive health information every day,” Dr. Mbogo said. “Any violation of that trust damages the entire profession and harms patients who rely on us for discreet care. We will not hesitate to protect the integrity of pharmacy practice in Kenya.”
The investigation is ongoing, with the PSK expected to issue further updates once the disciplinary process reaches key milestones. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between public curiosity, political scrutiny and the fundamental right to privacy in healthcare.
