Meru: The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) members in Meru County have gone on strike after the end of a 21-day strike notice. The medical practitioners withdrew their services to protest the failure by the county government to implement a return-to-work agreement signed on 12th May 2026.
According to Kenya News Agency, the medics, led by KMPDU Upper Eastern Secretary Timothy Muriuki, stated that the executive has not addressed various concerns presented to them. The major issues highlighted by the union include staff shortages, excessive work hours for doctors, stagnation, lack of training, salary disparities, and the absence of promotions.
Dr. Muriuki emphasized that union members have faced unfair labor practices for an extended period, necessitating the standardization of employment terms. The health workers reported a lack of study leave and were compelled to work long hours.
Some members, employed on contracts, are demanding permanent and pensionable positions, as they perform similar duties to their colleagues. Dr. Muriuki indicated that due to the county government’s failure to honor the return-to-work agreement, members have been advised to remain home until the issues are resolved.
Patients are advised to seek medical attention in neighboring counties and private hospitals. Doctors have reportedly been working over ten hours due to staff shortages, and the demand for permanent employment for doctors on contract persists.
Disparities in salaries between doctors employed by the County Public Service Board and those employed by the Hospital Boards, despite performing similar duties, were also revealed. The medics protested the reallocation of funds meant to address their issues in the 2025-2026 budget.
They have called upon county assembly members to intervene and address these concerns to ensure the smooth operation of health facilities.
