“Recording a Client Without Consent Is Unethical,” Says PSK as Pharmacist Who Filmed Rigathi Gachagua Faces Disciplinary Committee

A pharmacist who allegedly recorded former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua buying medicine at a local chemist is now facing possible disciplinary action, after the incident sparked outrage within Kenya’s pharmaceutical sector.

The video, which circulated widely on social media earlier this week, shows Gachagua inside a pharmacy purchasing over-the-counter medication. 

While the exact location of the chemist has not been officially confirmed, reports indicate the footage was taken while the politician was on a three-day political tour in the Gusii region.

The recording quickly drew criticism from the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK), which described the act as a serious violation of professional ethics and patient privacy. 

The society warned that capturing and sharing footage of a client in a healthcare setting without consent undermines trust between patients and healthcare providers.

PSK President Wairimu Mbogo strongly condemned the incident, stressing that pharmacies must remain confidential spaces for all individuals seeking medical assistance.

“Recording a client without consent is unethical and unacceptable in any healthcare environment,” Mbogo said, adding that every patient—regardless of status—is entitled to privacy, dignity, and respect when accessing services.

According to the society, investigations are already underway to establish the identity of the pharmacy outlet and determine whether the person responsible for recording the clip is a licensed practitioner. 

Preliminary findings suggest the individual behind the recording may not be a registered pharmacist, raising additional concerns about regulatory compliance within the facility.

The PSK noted that if the investigations confirm professional misconduct, the matter could be referred to the relevant disciplinary committee. 

Possible penalties may include suspension or revocation of licences, depending on the findings of the inquiry.

Healthcare experts say the incident has reignited debate about privacy protections in medical environments, particularly in the age of smartphones and viral social media content. 

Professional bodies have increasingly warned that the misuse of mobile devices in healthcare settings can compromise patient confidentiality and damage the reputation of medical institutions.

PSK also indicated that beyond addressing this specific case, the organization is reviewing broader measures aimed at strengthening ethical standards and reinforcing guidelines for pharmacists and pharmacy staff across the country.

Meanwhile, Gachagua and his representatives have not issued an official statement regarding the viral video or the disciplinary action being considered against the person who filmed him.