The Kiambu County Government has agreed to pay doctors’ salaries that were withheld during the strike period to allow them to resume duty.
This resolution was reached during a consultative meeting convened by the Council of Governors (CoG) aimed at finding a lasting solution between the Kiambu County Government and the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
Strike Background
Doctors in Kiambu County have been on strike for over four months, paralysing medical services across the region.
In a statement, Muthomi Njuki, the Council of Governors Whip, announced that the County Government will pay the striking doctors one month’s dues, alongside the October salary. The remaining three months’ arrears will be cleared in the 2026/2027 financial year.
Key Agreements Reached
During the meeting, several critical resolutions were made:
- Payment of Withheld Salaries: One month’s salary and October pay to be released immediately.
- Settlement of Arrears: The pending three months’ arrears to be settled in the 2026/27 financial year.
- Union Dues: The County Government agreed to reinstate the deduction and remittance of union dues with immediate effect.
- Return-to-Work Formula: Any pending union dues will be paid in accordance with the agreed Return-to-Work formula.
- Non-Victimisation Clause: The employer will not victimise doctors who participated in the ongoing strike.
CoG’s Appeal for Dialogue
The Council of Governors urged both the County Government and the KMPDU to embrace dialogue and work together to restore normalcy in the health sector.
The Council further reiterated its commitment to supporting the welfare of doctors and ensuring the betterment of healthcare services for all Kenyans.
Union’s Stand
For months, the KMPDU has accused Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s administration of failing to honour a return-to-work agreement signed last year. The union has also cited the plight of residents who have suffered due to the prolonged health crisis in Kiambu County.
Conclusion
The agreement marks a significant step toward resolving the doctors’ strike and restoring essential health services in Kiambu County. Both parties are expected to follow through on the agreed terms to ensure lasting industrial harmony in the healthcare sector.
