The government has given unions representing medical professionals until 9:30 a.m. on Monday to sign a return-to-work formula agreement as ordered by the court and to urge their members to resume work.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei issued the ultimatum on Friday after the KMPDU-led unions declined to sign the agreement. He stated that the medics introduced new issues instead of adhering to the court order.
Koskei explained that the unions indicated they would only sign the agreement on Monday once their fresh demands were incorporated, which goes against the court’s direction. He mentioned that the Ministry of Health and Council of Governors had signed the return-to-work formula and directed lawyers to file it in court on Monday, May 6, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. as directed by the Honorable Judge.
Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving the strike and achieving a sustainable solution. She urged the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) to call off the strike, which has been declared illegal by the Industrial and Labour Relations court on several occasions.
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki warned that if doctors do not respond as required, counties will be compelled to dismiss the striking doctors as they cannot allow people to continue suffering.
“In the event that we still do not have doctors in the hospitals, we cannot continue to allow our people to die. We will have no choice but to replace them,” he stated as the doctors’ strike entered its 53rd day.
