Busia Doctors Threaten To Down Tools Over Poor Working Conditions

• Busia doctors have accused the county government of failing to address key issues affecting the healthcare system in the devolved unit
• Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atellah said the medics might strike if the county fails to deal with their issues
• The doctors decried poor working conditions, including a lack of medical supplies and drugs in hospitals.

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Busia - Doctors in Busia county have threatened to go on strike if the county government fails to address their grievances.

On Saturday, December 9, Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atellah said their legal team was handling a recent court order on the suspension of industrial action.

"Our legal team is actively handling the case, addressing the injustices perpetuated by the County against doctors by refusing to promote them, addressing the severe shortage, and employ them on fair terms," Atellah said.

KMPDU has demanded prompt conclusion on promotions and release to school for the medics.

The doctors decried poor working conditions, including a lack of medical supplies and drugs in hospitals.

"The meeting also shed light on the poor working conditions in the hospital.There are no medical supplies or drugs in hospitals, putting patients at risk," the doctors stated.

According to Atellah, the focus should be on creating a safer environment for both patients and doctors.

The medics said if the county led by Governor Paul Otuoma does not address their issues, they will down their tools.

"In addition, it was emphasised that we may resume our industrial action soon if the Busia county government remains belligerent," he added.

Why Busia health workers striked in July

As reported earlier, in July, health workers in Busia downed their tools protesting poor working conditions and delays in salary payment.

The 800 health workers belonging to KMPDU, Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) and the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) resorted to the strike after the county failed to act on their grievance.

The health workers took to the streets seeking attention from Governor Paul Otuoma over their issues.