Doctors in Embu to commence strike action due to unresolved issues
By Elizabeth NgigiDoctors in Embu County are set to down their tools next week, following the lapse of a 21-day notice issued to the devolved unit’s administration in December of 2023.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) Secretary General, Dr Davji Atellah, announced the impending go-slow, citing the continuous failure of the county government to address the medics’ concerns.
Among the primary concerns outlined by Dr Atellah was the failure of the Embu County government to implement the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed on June 30, 2017.
Additionally, he highlighted the contravention of the Scheme of Service established in 2016.
The KMPDU boss emphasized issues raised by health workers, including delayed and denied promotions, as well as the general shortage of doctors, particularly at the Embu Level V Hospital.
“Our members’ career stagnation for the past decade is in clear violation of these agreements. We demand the immediate promotion and re-designation of all affected officers to their rightful job groups, along with the payment of corresponding arrears,” stated Dr Atellah.
He further expressed dissatisfaction with the employment of doctors under ambiguous contract terms that do not align with established guidelines, calling for the conversion of these positions to permanent and pensionable terms as stipulated in the CBA.
Dr Atellah insisted on the promotion of affected officers to their rightful job groups and the payment of all owed gratuity and arrears.
Accusing the county government of failing to remit statutory deductions, loan payments, Sacco contributions, insurance premiums, and KMPDU member contributions, Dr Atellah termed these actions as violations of legal requirements and employment agreements.
The KMPDU Secretary-General also raised concerns about the alleged denial of study leave for eligible doctors, unfavorable work environments, unprocedural stoppage of salaries, as well as victimization and arbitrary transfers, listing these as additional causes for the planned industrial action.
“We emphasize our willingness to engage in open and constructive dialogue to find lasting solutions to these issues. However, if the aforementioned matters remain unaddressed, KMPDU will have no choice but to commence its strike action beginning 21 days from the receipt of this notice,” warned Dr Atellah in the letter dated December 21, 2023.
As the deadline approaches, stakeholders are urged to prioritize negotiations and seek an amicable resolution to avert the potential disruption of healthcare services in Embu County.