The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has announced a nationwide strike by doctors starting on December 22, 2024. The decision comes after the government failed to address the union’s long-standing grievances.
Speaking in Kakamega County, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah confirmed the strike, citing frustration over unmet promises and poor treatment of healthcare workers.
“The fraternity has had enough,” Dr. Atellah said during a meeting at Kakamega County Referral Hospital on December 13. “From midnight, December 22, we are taking to the streets and staying at home. We strike today, not tomorrow. This is no longer the time for hollow boardroom negotiations. We demand the government honors its promises and implements our agreements.”
Doctors are protesting poor working conditions, delayed salary payments, and pay cuts, especially for medical interns. The union has accused the government of ignoring agreements, including the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed years ago, and disregarding court orders that protect healthcare workers' rights.
In a statement, Dr. Atellah explained that efforts to resolve these issues had not succeeded.
“Court orders remain unheeded, Return-to-Work Formulas (RTWF) are ignored, CBAs are violated and dismantled. This government continues to show disdain, dishonesty, and disrespect toward doctors,” he said.
The strike notice was first issued on December 10 after months of failed negotiations. According to the union, a judgment from October 26, 2024, validated the CBA, including a better remuneration package for medical interns, but the government has not implemented it.
Healthcare workers are also concerned about the declining number of doctors in public hospitals. Many are leaving due to poor pay and lack of support, leaving those who remain overworked and struggling to serve patients.
The union has raised the alarm over worsening conditions in public hospitals, including staff shortages and inadequate medical supplies.
Patients relying on public healthcare facilities are expected to face major challenges if the strike proceeds. The disruption is likely to affect services during the festive season when the demand for healthcare typically rises.
“The public continues to suffer from poor medical care due to the government’s failure to act,” said Dr. Atellah. “We have tried every avenue for dialogue, but the government has ignored our pleas. This strike is the only option left.”
The KMPDU is calling on both national and county governments to address their grievances immediately to prevent the strike.
The union wants the government to fulfill its promises, implement the CBA, and improve working conditions for all healthcare workers.
Kenyans are bracing for the effects of the industrial action. Doctors remain firm in their decision, demanding that their voices be heard and their issues addressed.
“This is not about us alone,” said Dr. Atellah. “It’s about improving healthcare for all Kenyans. The government must act now.”
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