KMPDU to proceed with planned Demos - Atellah

Nairobi, 

Monday, 8 July, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has denied suspending its planned Demos to occupy the Ministry of Health Afya House. 

According to KMPDU Secretary General Devji Atellah, The Union's social media handle were intruded by unauthorized person who went on to call off the demos in the guise of the organization. 

Atellah Insisted that the union will carry on with its Demos as planned. 

“Reports circulating to the effect that #OccupyMoH has been suspended, is false. The union handle has been compromised and we are trying our best to regain control and clean it,” he said.

“We remain strong. We remain focused,” he added in an X post.

KMPDU had announced plans to occupy the premises on Monday, July 8, to ensure that all medical interns are posted to health facilities nationwide in line with the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

In a letter addressed to Nairobi Area Regional Police Commander Adamson Bungei, The Union gave notice of a day and night sit-in at the Ministry of Health headquarters at Afya House starting today. 

However, an early morning tweet appeared to suspend the planned protests citing that the decision had been put on hold due to ongoing discussions to ensure that the CBA agreement is met.

The announcement attracted backlash as social media users criticized the Union for cowardice prompting Atellah’s clarification.

A collection Bargaining Agreement was signed between the Union and the Ministry of Health on May 8 compromising a return to work formula after 56 days of doctors strike. 

Furthermore, the agreement stipulated that interns should be deployed by July, 7, 2024 an agreement that has not been met by the government.

Amongst the demands of KMPDU is the sacking of Health CS Dr. Susan Nakhumicha.