Court clears way for KMPDU elections tomorrow as SG Atellah runs unopposed

The Employment and Labour Relations Court has declined to stop the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) elections scheduled for April 2, 2026, dismissing an application that sought conservatory orders to halt the poll.

In its ruling delivered on April 1, 2026, the court found that the petitioners had failed to establish a prima facie case to warrant the granting of interim orders.

The judge held that there was no sufficient evidence of violations of the Labour Relations Act or the union’s constitution to justify judicial intervention in the electoral process.

The court further ruled that the Independent Electoral Committee (IEC) overseeing the elections was properly constituted under the union’s constitutional framework, and that its extension of tenure had not been shown to be unlawful.

It also found no proof to support allegations of bias, lack of independence, or irregularities significant enough to invalidate the process.

On claims regarding the voter register and nomination requirements, the court noted that such disputes fall within internal union mechanisms, including election appeals, and should not be prematurely escalated to court without sufficient evidence.

The judge emphasised that courts should be slow to interfere with the internal affairs of voluntary associations unless clear constitutional or legal breaches are demonstrated.

Consequently, the application dated March 17, 2026, seeking to suspend the elections was dismissed, clearing the way for the polls to proceed as scheduled.

Following the ruling, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah welcomed the decision, terming it a victory for democracy within the union.

In a statement to members, Dr. Atellah said the court’s decision affirms the rule of law and safeguards the union’s democratic processes, adding that the elections would proceed without interference.

“The rule of law has prevailed, and with it, the democratic will of our union stands affirmed,” he said, urging members to turn out in large numbers and vote.

He also commended aspirants for conducting issue-based campaigns marked by professionalism, and called for unity beyond the ballot, noting that the union’s broader mission remains unchanged regardless of the election outcome.

Dr. Atellah, who is seeking re-election unopposed, further expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve since 2021, describing the period as one marked by challenges, gains, and a strengthened voice for the union.

“I urge every member to turn out and vote. Participate fully. Make your voice count. Let us exercise our democratic right and collectively determine the leadership that will carry KMPDU forward,” he said.