Medics announce withdrawal of services during protests, cite infiltration by goons

The body, which included members of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), had joined the protests to attend to medical emergencies. 

The volunteer group of doctors, nurses, clinical officers, psychologists, nutritionists, paramedics, interns and students had set up medical camps in Nairobi and other towns, where injured protesters were taken for emergency services. 

Ambulances were also on standby to attend to patients who required referral care. 

Now, Medics for Kenya have announced the withdrawal of their services during protests over the violence that has marred the demonstrations recently. 

“With the change in maandamano atmosphere and the deployment of goons, we as Medics For Kenya, highly value the lives of our volunteers. As we say in the corridors of hospitals, 'Your Safety Comes First'. Therefore, it is with much regret and pain that we announce MedicsForKenya will withdraw their medical camp services all across the country,” the body said in a statement on Tuesday. 

The body’s co-founder, Dr. Austin Omondi added that its hotlines will remain open, and will coordinate services between emergency response providers and hospitals. ‘

In Nairobi, the medical camps had been set up in places such as Jamia Mosque, All Saints Cathedral and Holy Family Basilica. 

Changing face of protest

What began as a peaceful protest on June 11, 2024 has morphed into violence-filled demonstrations, marred with excessive use of force by police officers. 

On Tuesday, the demonstrations saw protesters clash with business persons in towns such as Nairobi and Mombasa. 

Business operators in Nairobi were seen holding clubs, saying they are out to protect their businesses from invasion by looters. 

A similar incident was witnessed in Mombasa, where the owner of Qaffee Point hotel clashed with demonstrators. The business owner shot at the protestors, leaving two with injuries. 

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations also reports that other goons, taking advantage of the protests, accosted passersby in major roads and mugged them. 

“DCI teams have been dispatched to pursue gang members recorded by concerned citizens violently robbing innocent Kenyans on the roads, while taking advantage of the ongoing demonstrations,” the DCI says, vowing to catch those involved in the criminal activities.