After 56 days of a grueling nationwide strike that left hospitals in disarray and patients suffering, doctors have finally called off their industrial action.
The decision came following intense negotiations between the government and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU), culminating in the signing of a return-to-work formula.
However, despite this breakthrough, a crucial issue remains unresolved – the fate of intern doctors. Sources close to the negotiations revealed that a significant disagreement persists between the government and the KMPDU regarding the placement of medical officer interns, pharmacist interns, and dentist interns.
The crux of the matter lies in the interpretation of existing agreements and legal obligations. The government, represented by its position, asserts that the issue of intern doctors falls under the jurisdiction of the Employment and Labour Relations Court of Kenya, specifically in ELRC Petition No. 003 of 2024. Consequently, the government argues that any decision regarding intern placement must await the court’s final determination, as per the order issued on May 2nd, 2024.
On the other hand, the KMPDU maintains that intern doctors should be posted immediately in accordance with the terms outlined in the 2017-2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). According to their position, delaying the placement of interns would exacerbate the already strained healthcare system and hinder the professional development of these medical practitioners.
This is a developing story…
