The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has officially suspended the planned doctors’ strike after the county government committed to resolving the issues raised by medics. Speaking on the development, Secretary General Davji Atellah confirmed that the union reached a breakthrough following negotiations with county officials. The strike had been scheduled to begin amid mounting frustrations over unresolved grievances affecting doctors in the region.
Breakthrough After Talks
According to the union leadership, the decision to suspend the industrial action followed assurances from the county administration that key concerns would be addressed within agreed timelines. Among the issues raised were delayed salaries, poor working conditions, staff shortages, and implementation of return-to-work agreements. Atellah noted that while the strike has been put on hold, the union will closely monitor the county’s commitments to ensure full compliance.
Services to Continue
The suspension offers relief to patients who were bracing for disruptions in public health facilities. A strike would have significantly affected service delivery, especially in critical departments such as emergency care, maternity, and outpatient services. Healthcare workers have now been advised to resume normal duties as discussions continue behind the scenes to finalize long-term solutions.
Warning to Counties
KMPDU reiterated that while it remains open to dialogue, it will not hesitate to take further action if the agreed resolutions are not implemented. The union emphasized that safeguarding doctors’ welfare is directly linked to improving healthcare services for Kenyans. The latest development underscores the importance of sustained engagement between healthcare workers and county governments to prevent recurring industrial disputes in the health sector.
