Medical Professionals Stand Firm: Reject Government’s Ksh.2.4B Offer
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) rejected a government proposal of Ksh.2.4 billion aimed at resolving the ongoing doctor’s strike.
On Tuesday, Felix Koskei, the Chief of Staff at the State House and the Head of the Public Service revealed that the funds allocated will enable the placement of all qualifying medical student interns. He encouraged eligible individuals to collect their letters starting from Thursday.
Koskei also mentioned that medical professionals who qualify would additionally be granted scholarships and financial assistance for their advanced studies.
Several hours following the announcement, KMPDU Chairman Abi Mwachi, and Secretary General Davji Atellah rejected the proposal, contending that it did not adequately uphold the terms of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Dr. Mwachi emphasized to President William Ruto that it is imperative to fully uphold the CBA agreement and ensure that the demands of health workers are completely met by the agreement.
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“The doctors of this country did nothing but believe in the promise of their government in 2017 where hence we ended a 100-day strike for the price of a promissory note. It is time to honor that promise. Respectfully,” he wrote.
“We decline these proposals in total. We believe that genuine governments should honor their Collective Bargaining Agreements.”
Atellah reiterated the Chairman’s views, describing the government’s action as a display of impunity, and asserting that they will persist until their demands are adequately addressed.
“We refuse to tolerate impunity! With unwavering determination, our resolve surges. United in purpose, our strike gains momentum, intensifying tenfold as we advance towards a healthcare system rooted in fairness and justice,” he said.
On Tuesday, marking its third week since March 14, the nationwide doctor’s strike worsened the already dire situation in hospitals as medical professionals left their posts and rallied on the streets.
Their primary argument revolves around the government’s inability to assign medical interns and the health ministry’s disregard for the agreement made with medical practitioners in 2017.
Medical Professionals Stand Firm: Reject Government’s Ksh.2.4B Offer
