KMPDU backs new Health committee chair Dr. James Nyikal to lead reforms

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has congratulated Seme Member of Parliament Dr. James Nyikal on his election as the new Chairman of the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, in a statement to newsrooms on Thursday, hailed the election as a strategic move towards strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

Dr. Atellah expressed confidence in Dr. Nyikal’s ability to champion policies that will not only improve working conditions for healthcare professionals but also enhance Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure.

“Dr. Nyikal's vast experience in healthcare leadership, public policy, and governance makes him an excellent choice to spearhead legislative efforts aimed at strengthening Kenya's healthcare system,” said Dr. Atellah.

“His deep understanding of the challenges faced by healthcare workers and the sector at large, coupled with his unwavering commitment to health reforms, is a testament to his suitability for this critical role.”

The KMPDU boss went ahead to reaffirm the union’s commitment to collaborating with Dr. Nyikal and the Parliamentary Health committee to push for robust policies that ensure quality and accessible healthcare for all Kenyans.

“As KMPDU, we remain committed to working closely with Dr. Nyikal and the Parliamentary Health Committee to advocate for improved working conditions for healthcare professionals, better healthcare infrastructure, and policies that ensure quality and accessible healthcare for all Kenyans,” added Dr. Atellah.

“We are confident that under his leadership, critical issues such as health financing, healthcare worker welfare, and universal health coverage (UHC) will receive the necessary attention and support.”

Dr. Nyikal, a seasoned healthcare professional, policymaker and a former Director of Medical Services, was on Thursday elected unopposed as the new committee Chair, taking over from his Endebess counterpart Robert Pukose who remains a member.

Pukose will also serve as the Vice Chairperson of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, deputising Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi who replaced Kiharu lawmaker Ndindi Nyoro.

These are among the latest changes in the National Assembly that saw opposition leaders absorbed into government to mirror the broad-based cooperation arrangement between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.