The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has declined a financial proposal of Sh.2.4 billion from the government, aiming to resolve the ongoing doctor’s strike.
State House Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service Felix Koskei recently disclosed that this fund was allocated to facilitate the placement of all eligible medical student interns, with invitations for eligible individuals to collect their letters starting Thursday.
Koskei also mentioned additional grants and scholarships for postgraduate medical education.
However, KMPDU Chairman Abi Mwachi and Secretary General Davji Atellah swiftly dismissed the offer, asserting that it falls short of honoring the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Dr. Mwachi emphasized in a communication addressed to President William Ruto the importance of fully honoring the previously agreed CBA, underscoring the doctors’ reliance on the government’s promise made in 2017.
He stated, “The doctors of this country did nothing but believe in the promise of their government in 2017 where hence we ended a 100 days strike for the price of a promissory note. It is time to honor that promise. Respectfully.”
Atellah echoed these sentiments, condemning the government’s actions as impunity and declaring their unwavering resolve until their demands are fully met.
“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 asserted.
The nationwide doctor’s strike, which began on March 14, has entered its third week, leading to significant challenges in hospitals as doctors have withdrawn from their duties, taking to the streets.
The primary concerns driving the strike include the government’s failure to post medical interns and the health ministry’s non-adherence to the medics’ 2017 CBA.
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