Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has voiced his apprehension regarding the persisting strike among health workers, citing it as a direct defiance of a court ruling.
The CS expressed dismay over the health workers’ unlawful strike, highlighting reports of intimidation directed towards those abstaining from the industrial action.
In an official statement, Kindiki condemned any form of protest or assembly that contradicts legal mandates and flouts court orders, emphasizing its detrimental impact on the nation’s constitutional framework.
“Law enforcement agencies are instructed to uphold law and order to safeguard both the public and compliant health workers amidst the ongoing labor dispute,” stated Kindiki.
This development follows a recent ruling by the Employment and Labour Relations Court, mandating conciliation and negotiation within 14 days between Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists & Dentists Union (KMPDU), among others.
Expressing grave concern, Kindiki highlighted the persistent disregard for the court order and the alarming trend of threats and coercion targeting non-participating health workers.
According to the CS, the striking doctors pose a significant threat to healthcare services and public safety by their repeated attempts to disrupt operations in health facilities.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto weighed in on the matter over the weekend, stressing the nation’s financial constraints and urging doctors to reconsider their demands.
Ruto emphasized the need for pragmatic solutions, stating that the country must operate within its fiscal means.
