The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Doctors at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret have issued a 14-day strike notice, citing continued violations of labor agreements and deteriorating work conditions.
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In a statement on Wednesday, Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah accused the hospital management of ignoring key commitments, including the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) signed on February 19, 2025.
Dr. Atellah criticized what he called consistent neglect of staff welfare, highlighting the lack of comprehensive medical insurance for doctors as a major concern.
“It’s unacceptable that those tasked with providing healthcare lack access to medical cover themselves. This is a failure of the system,” he said.
The union also raised alarm over unpaid salary arrears and the ongoing employment of doctors on contract terms, without fulfilling promises to transition them to permanent and pensionable roles.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by calls, texts, and emails from our members expressing despair and frustration. The unresolved salary arrears and lack of insurance are issues we can no longer tolerate,” Atellah stated.
In response, KMPDU held a physical meeting with its members in Eldoret, where they unanimously agreed to begin strike action if their concerns are not addressed within two weeks.
The union has laid out four key demands: full implementation of the RTWF, provision of a proper medical cover, immediate settlement of salary arrears, and conversion of all contract doctors to permanent terms.
“The national leadership stands with our members. We will not allow any doctor to be left behind. The agreements must be honored, and the fight for justice will continue—in negotiations, in the streets, and through the media,” said Atellah.
He emphasized the need for unified action to hold the employer accountable and restore dignity, fairness, and respect in the health sector.
