KMPDU threatens nationwide strike over salaries, delayed arrears

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has threatened to call a nationwide doctors’ strike if the government fails to conclude negotiations on a proposed 55 per cent salary increase within 90 days.

In resolutions adopted during the union’s 10th Annual Delegates Conference (ADC) held at the Safari Park Hotel on Saturday, KMPDU said the proposed pay rise is based on inflation accumulated over the last 10 years.

The union also issued a 21-day ultimatum to the government to reflect basic salary adjustments in doctors’ payslips, warning that failure to do so would trigger contempt of court proceedings and industrial action.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah said the conference reaffirmed the union’s resolve to push for better welfare and dignity for Kenyan doctors, describing the gathering as “the heartbeat of a movement.”

The union further demanded immediate settlement of all outstanding arrears for the 2024/2025 period and payments owed to doctors working under the Ministry of Health.

The union also called for comprehensive medical insurance cover for all doctors employed by both the national government and the 47 county governments.

On employment, KMPDU said it is pushing for the mandatory annual recruitment of 3,000 doctors and the direct absorption of interns into permanent and pensionable terms.

In addition, the ADC resolved to lobby for the repeal of Section 5A of the Universities Act, arguing that the provision threatens the quality and standards of medical training in Kenya.

Delegates also adopted policy positions on the Quality of Health and Patient Safety Bill 2025 and the Human Resources for Health policy, which the union says are aimed at addressing challenges affecting devolution and doctors’ welfare.

The conference also finalized internal governance matters, including trustee elections conducted under the two-thirds gender rule, adoption of the union’s 2026 budget and plans to conclude an ongoing constitutional review by ADC 2027.

“The highlight of the day was the official ratification of the leadership team elected on April 2nd, 2026. This was not merely a procedural step; it was a resounding testament to the renewed mandate you have entrusted us with. It is a mandate of hope, a mandate of action, and most importantly, a mandate for the dignity of the Kenyan Doctor,” said Dr. Atellah.

“As we exit this historic 10th ADC, let us remember that a Union is only as strong as the bond between its members. Our power does not lie in the offices we hold, but in the solidarity of the doctors on the frontlines. We have the mandate. We have the roadmap. Now, we must have the unity to see it through, for the journey ahead requires our collective courage.”

✊🏾 #Resolutions: Better care for patients begins with better support for the doctors who care for them. The KMPDU is calling for a 55% salary review, recruitment of 3,000 additional doctors to address critical staffing gaps, and the protection of medical training standards to… pic.twitter.com/SN66jSB4g7— KMPDU (@kmpdu) May 11, 2026