Health caucus speaks out, decries police violence against medics during protests
Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atella revealed that over 200 violent incidents have been reported in recent protests, including seven health workers who sustained serious injuries.
Health professionals have raised alarm over continued police violence against their colleagues during public demonstrations, saying the rising attacks are putting lives at risk and crippling medical services.
The Health Sector Caucus on Friday said hospitals are being pushed to the limit as injured protesters and assaulted medical workers flood emergency units, with healthcare teams bearing the emotional and physical burden.
More To Read
- Court hearing on Ndiang’ui Kinyagia adjourned amid affidavit confusion
- KNH faces backlash as health unions question handling of suspect in patient murder
- Rex Masai inquest reveals major gaps in police investigation
- Legal experts decry Kenya's ‘weaponisation’ of terror laws against Saba Saba protesters
- Grief and anger as form three student killed during Saba Saba protests laid to rest
- Nelson Havi urges President William Ruto to release detained protesters, warns against repression
Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atella revealed that over 200 violent incidents have been reported in recent protests, including seven health workers who sustained serious injuries.
"From the records, the hospitals are already indicating being overwhelmed after every protest," Atella said.
He described how some medics were tear-gassed while offering aid in makeshift treatment camps, others assaulted while operating ambulances and several more were attacked on their way to or from work, with phones and personal items stolen.
"We need to find ways to communicate our issues effectively, and the police should also exercise restraint," said the union spokesperson.
A new report by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) shows that 19 people have died in the ongoing protests, with 531 injuries and 15 enforced disappearances also documented.
Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) Secretary General George Gibore warned that the growing violence may force medical workers to suspend services if authorities do not step in to stabilise the situation.
He said the ongoing chaos has exposed frontline responders to danger, despite their role in saving lives. "We cannot continue losing lives and treating wounded citizens while we’re also under attack," he said.
Gibore appealed to national leaders to act in good faith and initiate meaningful dialogue to prevent more harm.
Top Stories Today
