The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has urged all doctors to assemble in Nairobi next week and wear a red armband as a gesture of solidarity with Secretary General Davji Atellah who is currently hospitalized after an alleged shooting by police during protests Thursday.
In a statement, KMPDU National Chairman Abi Mwachi, condemned the action by police as he announced looming countrywide mass action and the closure of all hospitals.
He directed union members to down their tools and converge at Ufungamano House in Nairobi at a date to be communicated to chart the way forward on their grievances.
While terming the shooting as a malicious action aimed at ending Dr. Atellah’s life, Mwachi called for a probe to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
“This egregious act of violence is not only an attack on our Secretary General but an affront to all doctors across the country. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union denounces this act of aggression and calls for an immediate and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators and their collaborators to justice.” Mwachi said in a statement.
Meanwhile, The Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dietitians has expressed concern and disappointment by the conduct of police officers during the peaceful march by the Medics, terming the actions by police as unacceptable and an indication of lawlessness by people mandated to maintain law and order.
In a statement, KUNAD General Secretary Odero Michael Ouma says the union demands answers from the Inspector General of police on the responsible officers, and actions taken against them.
Elsewhere, Public Services International has condemned the alleged shooting noting: “Unprovoked attacks on doctors taking part in peaceful and authorised actions in support of Kenya’s health system is totally unacceptable. Subjecting health workers to violence for attempting to improve the healthcare system for us all, is despicable.”
PSI General Secretary Daniel Bertossa called on the Kenyan government to respond to the demands of the KMPDU and other health unions in ensuring the release of funds to secure the placement of medical interns.
Bertossa said: “An attack on a trade union leader is an attack on all trade unionists. PSI is monitoring the situation and will take all necessary action to support Davji and the KMPDU.”
Wangari Kanyongo
