Doctors in Kitui have commenced their strike following the expiration of a 14-day notice, which concluded on February 7, 2024.
The strike notice was issued by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) on January 24, 2024.
They voiced grievances about labor exploitation, highlighting years of severe staff shortages, burnout, career stagnation, and demotivation due to stalled promotions. They lamented the denial of postgraduate study leaves and the county government’s failure to fulfill promises to resolve their issues.
“We cannot ignore the deliberate mistreatment of doctors leading to severe psychological distress. Adherence to the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), Employment Act, and all labor laws is imperative,” stated KMPDU Secretary General, Dr. Davji Atellah.
“In facing challenges akin to crossing a crocodile-infested river, we call upon all doctors to support each other and uphold the dignity of our profession while resisting labor injustices” Dr Atellah added.
The KMPDU leader further announced that the strike officially began at midnight on Thursday, after discussions between the union and the county government collapsed without resolution.
