In the midst of a prolonged doctors’ strike, the Kenyan government has issued a warning to potentially divert KES 2.4 billion, originally allocated for medical interns’ salaries, towards pressing matters such as flood relief. Despite recent negotiations aimed at resolving the strike deadlock, discussions abruptly concluded without agreement, leaving the dispute unresolved.
The Employment and Labour Relations Court has intervened, directing both parties to sign a Return to Work Formula by Monday morning. However, tensions persist as government officials express frustration over the prolonged strike, accusing the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) of delaying tactics.
Felix Koskei, leading discussions on behalf of the government, emphasizes the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of Kenyans affected by the strike. While the majority of issues raised by doctors have reportedly been addressed, the government insists on immediate resolution to prevent further patient distress.
Meanwhile, KMPDU officials stand firm, refusing to sign what they deem an incomplete agreement. Davji Atellah, the union’s Secretary-General, asserts their commitment to fair negotiations, highlighting years of unfulfilled promises and ongoing disputes over contractual terms.
Health CS Susan Nakhumicha raised concern that the doctors had introduced new issues which were not previously there. Nakhumicha said the union was for instance now demanding that the government pay salaries to self-sponsored registrars.
“At the last minute, they said their constitution does not allow them to sign documents at night. As a responsible government, we have a duty to ensure that patients are being served and that is what we will continue to do,” Nakhumicha said.
As the impasse continues, concerns grow over the impact on healthcare services and patient care, underscoring the urgent need for a swift resolution to the ongoing crisis.
