KMPDU: We refuse to be scapegoats for wage bill reduction

Striking doctors have vowed to stay put until the government fully honours the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement.

In a statement on Sunday, April 7, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General, Davji Atellah, lambasted President William Ruto following his declaration that the government was unable to meet their demands over lack of funds.

Ruto said there was a limit to what the government can spend on their salaries and allowances adding that his administration was working towards reducing a ballooning wage bill.

Atella in his rejoinder said doctors will not back down nor accept being scapegoats for wage bill reduction adding that their salaries which are anchored on CBA are non-negotiable.

“As Doctors, we refuse to be scapegoats for wage bill reduction. Our salaries, vital like any Kenyan’s, are based on fair agreements. Despite government pressure, doctors’ salaries, anchored on CBA, are non-negotiable”.

The union said it will not compromise on fair compensation for their members’ hard work.

“It’s unjust to target us for wage bill control while state officers enjoy hefty paychecks. We stand united against exploitation” he stated.

The doctors who went on strike on March 15 paralysing operations in public hospitals are now challenging the government to show goodwill by fully implementing the seven-year pay deal.

“The CBA is a sacrosanct document whose full implementation is the first sign of goodwill from the employer. Its belittling and dismissal will always invite the wrath of workers anywhere in the world!” KMPDU said on X.

KMPDU has rallied doctors, medical interns and students to join nationwide peaceful demonstrations on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

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