End medics strike now, many are hurting

To the Kenyan living on less than two dollars a day, the strike is on only because doctors "need to be paid more money". The media on the other hand is only telling us the medics are on strike because of the pay issue, ignoring the other reasons for the boycott.

The doctors' struggle did not begin in 2011 when they downed tools to agitate for better terms and good working conditions. It began in 1994 where 3,000 doctors downed tools agitating for the registration of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentist Union (KMPDU) in addition to better working conditions.

It lasted 105 days between June and September, making it the longest in Kenyan history. The current strike seems to be following in its footsteps as it marks its 76th day, the root cause being the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

The contentious CBA, according to the doctors, outlines issues touching on the welfare of both patients and doctors and their wishes are that it be registered fully and implemented.

Despite the doctors' efforts to have the CBA fully implemented for the benefit of both doctors and patients, most Kenyans are not aware of its contents.

Most Kenyans don't know how the CBA will be of any help to them and wish that the Government would sign "that thing" so that the doctors can go back to work.

The CBA can easily be summarised into four main areas: training, employment, working environment, working conditions and pay. It, therefore, not only covers payment of doctors but ensures the medics can effectively cater for patients' welfare by being provided with a favourable environment where they have the necessary equipment for work.

The media has done a good job by bringing to light some of the Kenyans affected by the strike, most of whom are on the verge of death and are clinging to the hope that they could wake up to news that the doctors' are back to work.