KMPDU in fresh strike warning over working conditions
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) have threatened to mobilise its members to strike if the government fails to address their concerns.
KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah criticized the government for deplorable working conditions faced by healthcare providers in counties including Homa Bay, Kitui, Nairobi, Migori, Machakos, Makueni, and Kwale.
Dr. Atellah specifically condemned the Kenya Kwanza administration’s new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), deeming it unaffordable for healthcare professionals and the broader Kenyan population.
“We demand comprehensive medical cover for our members. Failure to heed this call will force the union into unprecedented mother of all nationwide strikes,” warned Dr. Atellah.
He further highlighted challenges such as poor contracts, denial of study leaves, lack of promotions, acute staff shortages, consistent breach of Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), and manipulation of labor laws.
Dr. Atellah emphasized that the risks in medical practice are substantial, and the union cannot allow members to provide services they cannot afford when sick.
The union leader stressed that these issues not only impact healthcare providers but also negatively affect the patients they serve.
Dr. Atellah urged the government to promptly and decisively address these critical concerns or face the consequences of a historic nationwide strike.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the blatant disregard for the welfare of healthcare professionals who, despite their unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of Kenyans, find themselves subjected to deplorable working conditions and have now been forced to down their tools,” he said.
Also read: Sakaja offers free treatment for Embakasi gas explosion victims
Murder suspect Eric Matara denies killing socialite Starlet Wahu