The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K), has addressed concerns regarding his purported silence on the ongoing doctors’ strike, affirming Cotu’s commitment to resolving the impasse and facilitating the doctors’ return to work.
Speaking during a Shops Stewards meeting on Saturday, Atwoli clarified that Cotu is actively involved in consultations with both the government and the doctors’ union to address the issues fueling the strike.
“As the spokesperson for Kenyan workers, I have been liaising with the government and intend to meet with the doctors’ union to establish a Return to Work Formula,” Atwoli stated.
However, Atwoli emphasized that while Cotu advocates for workers’ rights, each affiliated union maintains its independence. Therefore, Cotu cannot dictate terms on behalf of either party but aims to bridge the gap in negotiations.
“We can neither decide for the union nor the government, hence the tripartite arrangement. However, we can facilitate discussions to reach a resolution and enable doctors to resume work,” Atwoli clarified.
Atwoli also highlighted Cotu’s condemnation of the attack on Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union SG Davji Atellah, underscoring Cotu’s solidarity with the medical fraternity.
The doctors’ strike, which commenced on March 14, has persisted for twenty-three days as doctors demand the fulfillment of their grievances by the government.
Despite court orders for mediation, the deadlock remains unresolved, with the union standing firm on its demands, particularly regarding the placement of medical interns.
KMPDU chairperson Abi Mwachi reiterated the union’s stance, citing unmet promises from past negotiations and advising medical interns against collecting placement letters until their concerns are addressed.
Efforts to mediate the dispute have so far proved unsuccessful, with doctors continuing to withhold their services until their demands are met.
