Clinical officers accuse government of discrimination, unfulfilled promises as strike begins

As its nationwide strike takes effect, the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has accused the government of high-handedness in dealing with their concerns.

The clinical officers issued a 14-day strike notice that lapsed on January 19. They are protesting over alleged discrimination by the Social Health Authority (SHA) and an unfulfilled Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

The agreement included deals on staff promotions, comprehensive medical cover, and the conversion of clinical officers on short-term contracts into permanent and pensionable positions.

KUCO General Secretary George Gibore said the Ministry of Health and county governments have failed to honour these commitments.

Speaking during a press briefing, Gibore expressed frustration over the government's silence on their grievances, which include alleged discrimination by SHA and its refusal to empanel facilities owned by clinical officers.

“This discrimination and exclusion has been occasioned by the blatant, illegal, and illogical refusal by Social Health Authority to recognise the facilities and practitioners registered and licensed by the Clinical Officers Council,” Gibore said.

He lamented the persistent challenges faced by the profession, saying that despite staging over 100 strikes since the advent of devolution, most of their demands have not been met.

"We are being subdued as clinical officers to things that are not lawful, and that is why we are saying we are not willing to take that," Gibore said.

"These violations are not just an attack on the clinical officer's profession but an affront to the rule of law and the sanctity of agreements."

KUCO National Treasurer Mary Boniface echoed his sentiments, accusing the government of failing to address their concerns. She warned that the situation risks depriving patients of critical health services under SHA.

"We've had meetings with the former SHA chairman, we have even done petitions, including to the presidency, but we've not received any response, and we feel they are not committed to solving this issue," Boniface said.

The union is demanding the immediate recognition and empanelment of health providers and practitioners licensed by the Clinical Officers Council. They also want the SHA board to reinstate pre-authorisation rights for clinical officers, including specialists, and fully implement the return-to-work agreement.

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