Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has suspended its planned protests at the Ministry of Health offices.
KMPDU had planned to lead the protests dubbed Occupy MOH on Monday, July 8, 2024, to push for the posting and payment of medical interns as per the terms of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
However, the doctors union has now changed its tune and suspended the protests at the last minute.
KMPDU on suspending protests
KMPDU in a statement on Monday, July 8, 2024, said the suspension of the protests is due to ongoing discussions and commitments made by the government.
“We are suspending the occupation of Afya House. This decision comes as a result of ongoing discussions and commitments made towards ensuring all medical interns are posted in accordance with the 2017 CBA. We remain vigilant and committed to achieving fair outcomes for all interns,” the statement shared by KMDU via social media reads.
The planned protests have been trending on the X platform under the hashtag Occupy MOH.
The doctors were supposed to camp at Afya House until their demands are met by the Ministry of Health.
KMPDU grievances
In a notice on its X page last week, KMPDU cited broken promises given to them by Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha.
This is based on the Return To Work Policy dated May 8, 2024, which was triggered by a 56-day doctors’ strike.
KMPDU said intern doctors were meant to receive their placement information by July 7, 2024.
This deadline was established in an agreement reached on May 8, and reaffirmed by CS Nakhumicha in a meeting at the State House with the president present.
A notice signed by KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah on July 5, 2024, addressed the Nairobi Area Regional Police Commander requesting security during the planned protests.
“Reference is made to the return to work (RTWF) dated 8th May 2024 in which it was agreed that intern doctors would collect their internship letters within 60 days. This agreement, which was deposited in court referenced as EL032 and EL036 attached here, is yet to be fulfilled as of today. The 60 days lapses on 7th July 2024.
“Consequently, we have scheduled a sit-in day and night at the Ministry of Health where all the medical interns will be ready to collect their letters as agreed and in compliance with the RTWF and court order on Monday, 8th July, 2024, starting at 9:00 AM. This letter is to inform you to provide security and maintain order for all participants, during this event. Your cooperation and support in facilitating a peaceful and orderly event will be greatly appreciated,” the letter reads.