NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 14 – Doctors in Marsabit have issued a three-week notice to the devolved unit to address their grievance before they go on strike.
In a letter to the County Secretary and Head of Public Service as well as the Department of Health Chief Officer, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) wants frequent salary delays, non-remittance of statutory deductions, and contributions resolved.
Others are delayed and denied promotions, unavailability of medical coverage, shortage of doctors, non-release of doctors for study leave, as well as unfavorable working environments.
“KMPDU notifies you of our intention to initiate an industrial action, effective TWENTY-ONE (21) DAYS from the date of this letter,” KMPDU CEO Davji Bhimji Atellah wrote in a letter.
“This decision has not been taken lightly, but rather in response to a series of unresolved concerns that significantly impact the wellbeing and rights of our members,” Atellah added.
“We believe our concerns warrant immediate attention and resolution to enable the continued provision of quality healthcare services within Marsabit County.”
The union argues that member salaries have been delayed since 2020, with November and December salaries yet to be paid without any communication given.
KMPPDU says that the above goes against the revised Scheme of Service of 2016 and the signed Collective Bargaining Agreement 2017–2021 (CBA) between the County Government of Marsabit and KMPDU.
“Our members’ perennial delays of their salaries are in clear violation of these agreements. We demand immediate payments alongside the payment of corresponding arrears.”
Another point of contention is a failure by the county to remit statutory deductions, loans, payments, Sacco contributions, insurance premiums, and KMPDU member contributions, which violates legal and employment agreements.
“The severe shortage of doctors within Marsabit County is alarming and contrary to the World Health Organization’s recommended doctor-to-patient ratio,” KMPDU states.
“The shortage impacts the quality of healthcare provided to our citizens. We demand the immediate employment of the required medical professionals in line with the revised Scheme of Service of 2016 and the 2017-2021 CBA,” it stated.
“Conversion of Doctors under Contract Terms to Permanent and Pensionable (PnP) Terms The employment of doctors under the contract terms (3 Months) that do not align with the established guidelines, particularly the non-provision of gratuity payment, is unacceptable.”
