The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has issued a directive for all medical interns to immediately cease reporting to their workstations, citing non-payment of salaries for the past four months.
Interns Unpaid for Four Months
KMPDU Secretary-General Dr. Devji Atellah revealed that the prolonged delay in salary disbursement has left interns struggling financially, with some unable to afford basic necessities. The union expressed grave concern over the emotional and financial toll on the interns, which it says has already resulted in the loss of two lives.
The most recent tragedy involved a pharmacist stationed at Thika Level 5 Hospital. “We cannot allow these hardworking professionals to continue enduring such despair and disillusionment caused by deplorable working conditions,” said Dr. Atellah.
Call for Immediate Action
In a statement, KMPDU instructed the unpaid interns to remain at home until the government addresses their grievances. The union emphasized its ongoing discussions with government officials, pressing for an immediate resolution to the crisis.
“We cannot in good conscience ask our members to continue working without pay,” Dr. Atellah added.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The withdrawal of medical interns is likely to exacerbate the strain on Kenya’s healthcare system, which heavily relies on these professionals for the delivery of essential services in hospitals across the country.
KMPDU reiterated its commitment to fighting for the rights of its members while urging the government to act swiftly to prevent further disruptions in healthcare services and avoid more tragic losses among the affected interns.
A Cry for Dignity and Fairness
The union has called on stakeholders and the public to support its push for better working conditions and timely remuneration for healthcare workers. “No one should have to choose between saving lives and affording a dignified life for themselves,” Dr. Atellah concluded
This development marks yet another call for accountability in Kenya’s healthcare sector, as stakeholders await government intervention to resolve the ongoing impasse.
