Embu health workers accuse governor of neglect, want action

Health workers staged a demonstration protesting neglect and poor working conditions. 

They have accused Governor Martin Wambora and the County Public Service Board of failing to address their grievances as their strike entered the second week.

They said the two offices failed to heed their complaints, ranging from non-remittance of statutory deductions, partial payment of salaries, shortage of staff and insufficient drugs and equipment in health facilities.

Embu Deputy Governor David Kariuki said they had engaged the union, and that there was a possibility of a truce. “There is goodwill. The strike will be over on Thursday,” he said.

But the health workers have vowed to continue with the strike. Kenya National Union of Nurses, Embu Branch Secretary, Macharia Kanderi, said deductions, including NHIF, PAYE, and bank loans were not remitted for the last four months. “Our colleagues cannot enjoy the benefits of NHIF cover as the records are not up to date," said Macharia.