Isiolo doctors down tools after expiry of strike notice over unresolved grievances

Isiolo doctors down tools after expiry of strike notice over unresolved grievances

KMPDU Upper Eastern Branch Chairperson Dr Kananu Kubai said repeated attempts to engage the county government had not yielded results, leaving doctors with no option but to withdraw their services.

Isiolo doctors have officially launched an industrial strike following the expiry of a 21-day strike notice issued to the county government.
The action, announced by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Upper Eastern Branch, follows what the union describes as continued failure by the county administration to address long-standing grievances affecting healthcare workers.
The strike, which began on Tuesday evening, comes after months of unresolved concerns, including delayed salaries, non-remittance of statutory deductions, lack of medical cover, intimidation, and poor working conditions.
KMPDU Upper Eastern Branch Chairperson Dr Kananu Kubai said repeated attempts to engage the county government had not yielded results, leaving doctors with no option but to withdraw their services.
She noted that many healthcare workers have continued reporting to work despite going for months without pay, a situation she said has significantly affected morale and service delivery.
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Dr Kubai urged residents with patients in public facilities in Isiolo, as well as those referred to neighbouring Meru County, to seek alternative care in private health facilities or other available options during the strike period.
She emphasised that the decision to down tools was made as a last resort to push the county government to address the welfare concerns of medical personnel.
Gynaecologist and union official Dr Dima Adan also raised concern over stalled career progression among doctors in the county, saying he has remained in the same job group for 13 years despite his experience and qualifications.
The strike is expected to disrupt services in public health facilities across Isiolo County, raising concern among residents who rely heavily on government hospitals.
Union officials have maintained that the industrial action will continue until their demands are met and sustainable solutions are implemented to improve working conditions and healthcare delivery.
As the standoff continues, stakeholders are calling for urgent negotiations between the county government and KMPDU to restore services and prevent further strain on the health system.

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