Protests: Medics withdraw volunteer services over security fears

 Protestors along Kimathi Street, Nairobi during the anti-Finance Bill 2024 demonstrations. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

Volunteer group 'Medics for Kenya' has announced the withdrawal of its medical camp services nationwide, which provided emergency medical assistance to injured persons during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

In a statement, co-founders Dr. Austin Omondi and Dr Salim Ishmael cited the increased violence and infiltration of goons that pose a security challenge for the medics, as the reason for this decision.

This, they say posed a significant risk to the group's volunteers, including doctors, nurses, clinical officers, psychologists, nutritionists, and paramedics.

"With the change in the atmosphere of the protests and the deployment of violent individuals, we prioritize the safety of our volunteers. Therefore, it is with regret and concern that we announce Medics For Kenya's withdrawal of medical camp services across Kenya," they explained.

The duo emphasised that the decision was carefully deliberated with various stakeholders, committee members, and volunteers.

"However, our hotlines will remain operational, and we will continue to coordinate with emergency response services, psychologists, and referral hospitals," the doctors said. 
Dr Omondi also pledged continued involvement in serving Kenyans and advocating for the rights of medical personnel.

The medical doctor was among those abducted during the anti-tax demonstrations, having been assaulted while organising a blood drive outside Sikh Union, Ngara, on June 24, before being released hours later.