Go back to work or get axed, Governor warns striking health workers

By KENNEDY OKWACH

Kakamega, Kenya: Health workers in Kakamega have been ordered to resume duties by Monday or face the axe for absconding duty.

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya said the county government will be forced to recruit new health workers to offer services should the current stalemate rage on.

He defended devolution of health arguing that it was not mooted by Governors but a law entrenched in the constitution, a document that was unanimously passed by Kenyans.

“If by Monday they will not have resumed work, we will advertise their positions. This strike is unconstitutional based on the judiciary’s ruling and it’s therefore misleading for health workers to claim that their rights will be violated,” he said.

Oparanya said it was unfortunate that health workers decided to go on strike instead of consulting with the governors to discuss their grievances and worries.

He further added that constitution cannot be implemented selectively to suit certain professional demands and cited that apart from health, agriculture, water and planning were also devolved in the constitution.

“Health was devolved to the counties to ensure all citizens of this country access essential and efficient health services. We are trying to rectify a situation where hospitals in some regions are well equipped and adequately staffed at the expense of others. Devolution is meant to bring services closer to the people not to punish professionals,” he said.

Speaking to The Standard, the governor assured health workers that the county government is working on a number of bills to handle and improve their welfare and working conditions.