In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) and the government fail to reach an agreement in a prolonged meeting, prolonging the doctors’ strike as KMPDU insists on unmet demands and implementation timelines.
- Despite government officials signing a document with a committee, KMPDU refrains from signing, citing unresolved issues and plans to submit a separate document capturing their demands to the court.
The standoff between doctors and the government persists as the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) refrains from signing a return-to-work agreement following a prolonged meeting with the Whole of the Nation Approach Committee.
Accusations and counter-accusations from both sides resulted in a deadlock, with KMPDU asserting that the strike remains ongoing due to the government’s failure to commit to implementing the issues raised within the stipulated timelines.
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KMPDU Secretary-General Davji Atellah emphasized the necessity of addressing issues regarding interns and the implementation timeline of agreed-upon matters.
The union contends that the document under negotiation remains unsigned as crucial matters are yet to be resolved.
Despite assertions from government representatives, including Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, that progress has been made, KMPDU maintains that the negotiations lack clarity on implementation timelines and specific hiring quotas for doctors.
Notably, KMPDU highlights concerns regarding medical insurance provision and the proposed five-year payment plan for doctors’ arrears, advocating for a shorter payment period, given the longstanding debt owed to medical practitioners.
Health Cabinet Secretary Wafula Nakhumicha commits to signing on behalf of the Ministry of Health in compliance with a court order, intending to deposit the signed document in court.
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However, KMPDU officials indicate their intention to sign a separate document capturing their demands and also deposit it in court on Monday, aligning with the return-to-work formula.