Kitui doctors on strike after talks with union failed

KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atella. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Doctors in Kitui County are on strike after talks between the County Government and the Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists Dentists Union (KMPDU) failed.

The doctors had complained of staff shortages, burnout, career stagnation and demotivation in a meeting with the county government on January 24, 2024.

But KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atella now says the strike started on Thursday, February 8, after the talks failed.

"We must admit that the plan to frustrate and mistreat doctors to the brink of depression can no longer be taken as business as usual and it must be put to a halt. 2017 CBA, employment act, and all labour laws must be adhered to," said Davji.

He added; "A crocodile-infested river cannot be easily crossed by an individual. We urge all doctors to be our brothers' and sisters' keepers in maintaining the dignity of our profession and pushing back against all forms of labour injustices."