Doctors in Kitui county commence strike amidst unresolved grievances
Doctors in Kitui County have commenced a strike after the 14-day notice they issued late last month concluded on February 7, 2024.
The strike notice was issued by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), the umbrella body representing doctors’ interests, following a meeting to address their grievances on January 24, 2024.
The doctors raised several concerns, including labor exploitation, chronic staff shortages, burnout, career stagnation, and demotivation due to stalled promotions.
They also highlighted the denial of postgraduate study leaves and the county government’s failure to fulfill promises to resolve their issues.
Dr Davji Atellah, the Secretary-General of KMPDU, emphasised the need for adherence to labour laws and collective bargaining agreements.
“We must admit that the plan to frustrate and mistreat doctors to the brink of depression can no longer be taken as business as usual and it must be put to a halt. The 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), Employment Act, and all labor laws must be adhered to,” Dr. Atellah stated.
He urged doctors to stand in solidarity against labor injustices and emphasised the importance of collective action in upholding the dignity of the medical profession.
The strike officially commenced on February 9 after talks between the union and the county government collapsed.
Despite efforts to resolve the grievances through dialogue, the failure to reach a satisfactory resolution prompted the doctors to take industrial action.
The KMPDU has reiterated its commitment to advocating for the welfare of doctors and ensuring adherence to labor standards in healthcare facilities.
On January 25, KMPDU Secretary General Davji Bhimji Atellah stated that they had resolved to withdraw their services in the county, issuing a notice.
“Arising from the meeting, an industrial action to withdraw labour and to jolt the employer to reality has henceforth become inevitable and unavoidable. A 14-day Strike Notice is issued to lapse on 7th February 2024. We must act now because tomorrow may be too late,” said Atellah.