UHC workers storm Parliament again, vow to stay on strike until demands are met

After four weeks of unresolved protests, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers on Tuesday escalated their grievances, marching to Parliament to petition the Senate for urgent intervention.

For the second time in a week, striking UHC workers from across the country stormed Parliament, demanding their concerns be addressed.

They vowed not to return to work until both national and county governments take action. They also condemned lawmakers for failing to allocate funds for their permanent and pensionable employment.

"The entire government agrees with us... it is Parliament and the Senate that are failing to allocate a budget to pay these people,” said Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Secretary General Seth Panyako.

On strike since February, UHC staff are also demanding salary harmonization in line with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission's (SRC) guidelines.

"These people are pushing the wheel of UHC, but their contracts are very poor,” Panyako added.

Amid mounting tensions, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and Marsabit Senator Mohamed Said Chute received the petition, vowing to champion the workers’ cause and fast-track a decisive resolution.

“Parliamentary processes take long but the process has started. I want to assure you that your issues are being addressed,” said Khalwale.

“Those who are supposed to defend you are now holding hands saying UDA and ODM... we who fear God will defend you,” Chute added.

The ongoing strike has crippled hospital services, straining healthcare delivery nationwide. Efforts to resolve the crisis have included meetings with the Ministry of Health, where the government requested 21 days to address the workers' demands.

However, the striking staff remain defiant, insisting they will not return to work until their grievances are fully addressed.