Doctors have called off their strike after agreeing a return to work formula and getting assurance from the government that their grievances will be addressed. Speaking after a meeting with national and County government officials led by Health CS Mutahi Kagwe and Labour CS Simon Chelugui, KMPDU acting secretary general Dr. Chibanzi Mwachonda said a return to work formula has been signed.
He said Counties that still have disputes with doctors will hold mediation talks, “We shall continue further engagements to follow up on all other matters we had raised in the strike notice on 16th November, and it’s our hope that we shall all come together to solve these matters,” he stated.
Labour CS Chelugui said his ministry is always open for conciliation and willing to mediate between employers and employees. He said all the issues that were raised by doctors have either been addressed or assurance of action has been given, “Me and the Minister for health will facilitate engagement with Counties and any other government department to ensure this return to work formula is sustained.”
The demands that doctors had put forward included provision of a comprehensive medical cover as provided for by NHIF to all doctors, formation of a Health Services Commission, payment of allowances for all MOH doctors, enhancement of the risk allowance, provision of adequate and standard personal protective equipment at all health facilities, immediate reinstatement of all doctors in select Counties like Laikipia and Kirinyaga, among others.