Doctors condemn Kitengela Hospital invasion, call for protection during protest

Dr Kireki Omanwa, the president of Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) speaking during a discussion on utilisation of the HIFU technology, held in Nairobi. [Gardy Chacha, Standard]

Doctors have strongly condemned the invasion of Kitengela Hospital, a private health facility in Kajiado County, during Tuesday's Saba Saba demonstrations.

Footage circulating online shows a rowdy group, some wielding clubs, moving through the hospital compound. At one point, as seen by The Standard, a fire was seen blazing within the hospital's premises.

Goons invade Kitengela Hospital, disrupt ongoing C-section and vandalise theatre pic.twitter.com/S2KVN60lnM - The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) July 7, 2025

According to Dr Kireki Omanwa, President of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), the incident was a blatant violation of a sacred space meant for healing.

"This violation of a critical healthcare facility, an institution of healing and safety, is both reckless and inhumane," said Dr Omanwa.

Of particular concern is that the invasion occurred while a Caesarean section was underway.

"The lives of both mother and child were put in imminent danger, and the hospital staff were traumatized and impeded from performing their duties," said Omanwa.

"This action constitutes a grave breach of medical ethics, patient rights, and human decency. Healthcare providers are not political actors; they are guardians of life."

The society is now urging the government and the police to guarantee the protection of hospitals and health workers during any civil unrest.

"We call upon both the Government of Kenya and the National Police Service to ensure that hospitals remain protected zones, even during times of civil unrest. We also remind the public, political leaders, and security agencies that no political objective can justify the endangerment of life-saving medical services."