The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Doctors in Kenya’s Upper Eastern Region, affiliated with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU), have confirmed their participation in the nationwide strike scheduled for December 22.
The doctors from Embu, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties announced they would join their colleagues nationwide in demanding the government honor its commitments outlined in the return-to-work agreement.
This marks the second strike by doctors this year, following a 56-day walkout in April that ended on May 8 after reaching an agreement with the Ministry of Health and Counties. The doctors stated that the government has failed to fulfill its promises, including delayed promotions, late salary payments, pay cuts for medical interns, inadequate medical insurance, and a lack of new doctor hires.
Seven months after the return-to-work agreement, none of these issues have been addressed. KMPDU Upper Eastern Chairman, Dr. Denis Mugambi, emphasized that the only way to halt the strike would be through the full implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
KMPDU Secretary General, Davji Atella, accused the government of not honoring its obligations. He reiterated that starting midnight on December 22, no doctor would be working in any hospital across the country, leaving the facilities for politicians to manage.
