Metropolitan Hospital Accused of Frustrating Burial of Former Diplomat Over Unpaid Bills

Nairobi, Kenya – Metropolitan Hospital faces severe criticism over its handling of the body of the late Titus Gatuthu Kaburu Theuri, a former diplomat and government official, who passed away on October 24, 2024. The family of Mr. Theuri, particularly his son Kaz Theuri, has accused the hospital of unethical practices that delayed his burial, despite significant efforts to settle the outstanding medical bill.

The family, grieving their loss, had planned to bury Mr. Theuri within two weeks of his passing, having obtained a burial permit and made all necessary travel arrangements. However, the hospital refused to release the body due to an outstanding balance of Ksh 7.4 million, of which the family had already paid Ksh 5 million. They were making weekly payments of Ksh 200,000 and had even offered a title deed worth Ksh 5.5 million as collateral.

“It was never about our inability to pay,” said Kaz Theuri. “We prioritized our father’s care over finances, but the hospital turned this into harassment.”

The family alleged that Metropolitan Hospital’s actions escalated on December 9, 2024, during what they described as “ransom-like” negotiations. Despite paying over Ksh 5 million and providing collateral, the hospital delayed the release of the body, demanding additional payments. Furthermore, they claimed an accounts officer sought an extra Ksh 50,000, exacerbating their distress.

Kaz shared how his elderly mother, Beth Wanjirû Theuri, a retired nurse in the UK, endured relentless calls for payment while struggling to receive updates about her husband’s condition.

The hospital eventually transferred the body to Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) on December 6, 2024. However, suspicions arose as the burial permit was allegedly backdated.

“This inhumane treatment has caused untold emotional suffering to our family,” Kaz stated, calling on the Ministry of Health to investigate the matter.

Hospital’s Response

Metropolitan Hospital expressed condolences to the Theuri family but defended its actions, stating that it had engaged the family in discussions about settling the arrears. The hospital claimed to have supported the family by issuing a fundraising letter and negotiating payment plans.

“It is important to note that our policy does not permit holding burial permits as a debt enforcement measure. We remain committed to addressing the family’s concerns and ensuring a compassionate resolution,” the hospital said in a statement.

A Storied Legacy

Mr. Theuri, known as G.K. Theuri, served as a Commercial Attaché diplomat at the Kenya High Commission in London from 1982 to 1989. His exemplary service saw him extend beyond the usual three-year diplomatic term, coordinating trade information and representing Kenya during the tenure of multiple High Commissioners.

A dedicated public servant, Mr. Theuri was also a family man, survived by his wife, Beth, son Kaz, and grandchildren. His burial is scheduled for January 17, 2025, at his family home in Kaheti village, Mukurwe-ini, Nyeri County.

The case has sparked a broader debate about healthcare ethics and the treatment of bereaved families in Kenya. Many are calling on authorities to scrutinize the practices of hospitals that prioritize financial settlements over compassion for grieving families.