No drugs, no medical equipment, pay cuts: Nakuru doctors issue 21-day strike notice

Doctors in Nakuru County have issued a 21-day strike notice over a myriad issues that they say have made it difficult for them to execute their duties efficiently.

Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, in a statement to newsrooms after a Saturday meeting with the medics, cited an alleged pathetic state of healthcare provision in Nakuru County as the cause of the planned go-slow.

“In Nakuru's hospitals, doctors are battling a deplorable state of healthcare provision. They find themselves without the necessary resources to save lives - there are no drugs, no medical equipment, and a chronic shortage of lab reagents and essential medical supplies,” said Dr. Atellah.

“Every day, memos about shortages circulate, painting a grim picture of our healthcare system.”

The doctors' union boss went ahead to slam the Governor Susan Kihika-led government over what he termed as failing to fulfil its campaign promises in the healthcare sector.

He also blasted the Kihika administration for subjecting doctors employed by the devolved unit to unjustified pay cuts, summary dismissals, as well as delayed promotions.

“During political campaigns, the government of Nakuru promised better terms and support for our healthcare professionals. However, these promises remain unfulfilled,” stated the KMPDU SG.

“Instead, doctors have seen their salaries slashed by a staggering 30%, and some have been haphazardly dismissed from their positions. It's a grave injustice. We firmly believe that our political leaders must be held accountable for the promises they made to the people. It's time for action, not words.”

He added: “Adding to the woes, our dedicated consultants are trapped in despair and desperation, with no hope of promotions in sight. It's a demoralizing situation that leaves them feeling undervalued and underappreciated.”

Dr. Atellah hence stated that, failure by the county government to resolve the said issues, will lead to a strike of doctors employed in all county facilities effective September 3, 2023.

“We stand united in our demand for immediate action. We demand the promotion of doctors without delay, an end to the archaic and insufficient employment contracts, and a concerted effort to combat the severe unemployment crisis within the county,” he noted.

“Healthcare is not a matter of political rhetoric; it's a matter of life and death for our residents. We refuse to accept empty promises any longer. As a result, doctors have issued a 21-day strike notice to Nakuru County, set to commence on the 23rd of September 2023.”