KMPDU issues two-week strike notice over unmet agreements with county govt’s

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has issued a two-week strike notice, citing the failure of county governments to implement the terms of the return-to-work agreement.

This comes after a court order demanding the promotion of doctors and the provision of health insurance for medical practitioners remained unfulfilled.

Speaking in Nakuru during an engagement with the union’s stakeholders, KMPDU Secretary-General Dr. Davji Atellah expressed frustration with the county chiefs, who he said has ignored the court’s directives, failing to honour the return-to-work formula.

According to Dr. Atellah, the situation has left medical professionals feeling unsupported, forcing the union to consider industrial action as a last resort.

“We have tried to engage with the county chiefs, but they have turned a blind eye to the issues affecting healthcare workers. The failure to implement the court order regarding promotions and health insurance is a clear indication that the government has not prioritized the welfare of our healthcare workers,” said Dr. Atellah.

The union also voiced concerns about the ongoing challenges facing the health sector, including the lack of adequate provisions for patients.

Dr. Atellah pointed out that many patients are left with no choice but to pay out of pocket for healthcare services, which is pushing them into further financial distress.

He called on the government to review the social health insurance system to ensure that it is sustainable and equitable for all citizens.

“If the government continues to ignore the plight of medical practitioners and patients, the situation will only worsen. It’s time the authorities took concrete action to address the issues crippling the health sector, as we cannot continue to work under these conditions,” he added.

The looming strike is a direct response to the ongoing neglect of health workers’ rights and the mounting pressure on the country’s health system.

The union has made it clear that without prompt action from the government, they will proceed with the strike, which could have serious consequences for the country’s healthcare delivery.