KMPDU convenes to address doctor welfare grievances

Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists' Union, Secretary General Davji Atellah, during a previous press conference. [Standard, File]

The Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists' Union (KMPDU) is set to hold a Special Delegates' Conference on November 30 in Nairobi.

The meeting, following the death of intern Dr. Francis Njuki and ongoing grievances over unpaid salaries and welfare concerns, will focus on declaring a nationwide strike in December.

KMPDU has directed intern doctors to stay away from workstations, citing the government's failure to pay their salaries for four months.

Secretary General Davji Atellah said the financial challenges had led to two deaths, including that of a pharmacist at Thika Level 5 Hospital and four suicide attempts.

"We will not afford to see any more deaths out of desperation, despair and disillusionment caused by the government's neglect. You must all stay at home as we engage authorities on these matters," said Atellah, adding, "How many more doctor interns must die for this government to keep its promises?"

Atellah explained that the government had not implemented the return-to-work formula signed on May 8 after a 56-day strike.

The agreement included revised salary scales endorsed by the court.

The conference, expected to bring together over 600 delegates, will feature reports from union officials and a vote on the strike plan.