The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) has officially notified Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja about a peaceful protest planned by doctors next week.
In a letter also addressed to the Nairobi Regional Police Commander, as well as the OCPDs and OCSs of Kilimani and Central Police Stations, the Union outlined their plans for the demonstration, which is set to begin at 8:00 AM on Monday, December 16, 2024.
KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah requested police protection for the protest, assuring that the union would comply with all necessary regulations and guidelines.
“We are notifying you that we will hold a peaceful demonstration starting from 8:00 AM on Monday, 16th December 2024,” the letter read.
“We kindly request your office to provide us with security for this important event. We will adhere to all the regulations set by your office.”
The protest will begin at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), proceed to the Nairobi Hospital, and conclude with a march to the Ministry of Health and Parliament buildings.
The march is aimed at pressuring the government to implement the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) signed in 2017 and 2021, as well as the Return-To-Work Formula (RTWF) agreements reached in May 2024.
“The demonstration is intended to compel the government to implement the CBAs of 30th June 2017 and 6th July 2021, and the RTWF documents dated 8th May 2024, made between the union, the Ministry of Health, the national government, national referral facilities, and county governments,” Dr. Atellah explained.
The KMPDU has been exerting pressure on the government to fulfill its obligations to healthcare workers.
The union has threatened to initiate a nationwide strike by doctors on December 22, 2024, if their demands, which include improved working conditions, timely salary payments, and better compensation for medical interns, are not met.
