Uproar after intern doctor dies in his house

KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atella during a press briefing on November 27, 2024. [ Collins Oduor, Standard] An intern doctor at the Thika Level 5 Hospital died by suicide on Monday, the second such tragedy in two months, amid nationwide protests by healthcare workers over poor pay and working conditions. Dr Francis Njuki Gachimo was found dead in his house in Kiganjo Estate in Thika, Kiambu County. According to the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentist Union (KMPDU), the 29-year-old pharmacist had worked without pay since August. "Earlier in September we lost Dr Desiree Moraa under similar circumstances. I am aware of five who have attempted suicide and were rescued and hospitalised," said Dr Davji Atellah, KMPDU secretary general. According to Thika West Sub-county Police Commander Lawrence Muchangi, Njuki's cousin who lived with him reported the death at the Kimuchu Police Post. "I had stepped out for few hours to watch a football game, when I came back, I found the door locked from inside. I informed the landlord and we broke in only to find lifeless body of my cousin hanging," said Sammy Kariuki. A note was reportedly recovered at the scene. According to the police report, the deceased had been battling depression and had been receiving treatment at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital. An autopsy was conducted on Monday at the General Kago Funeral Home, but the family is yet to reveal details. The incident has sparked more debate about the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers in the country amid calls for improved working conditions, better pay and mental health support. Yesterday, KMPDU issued a nationwide strike notice from Saturday, demanding immediate government action on long-standing professional grievances. The union has instructed all medical interns not to report to work from yesterday, signalling a total shutdown of medical services. "We blame the government for our two young colleagues who have since succumbed to depression," said Attelah. "As a union, we find these inhumane acts by a government that does not care about its health workers unacceptable. We demand immediate payment of the interns' salaries at the rate agreed upon seven years ago." He blamed the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the much-hyped universal health care programme was doomed if the welfare of workers continues to be ignored. "Four months of working 36-hour shifts without pay can break even the strongest among us. Our hearts ache as the medical fraternity mourns our younger brothers and sisters. We shall not take this anymore," said Atellah. Dr James Githinji, KMPDU Central Region chairman, termed Njuki as a hardworking doctor.

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