Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has decried exclusion of its members in the President William Ruto's administration.
According to the medics this is the first time since independence that no medical doctor has been appointed to Cabinet.
Addressing journalists in Nakuru during the unions' special delegates meeting, KMPDU secretary general Dr Davji Atellah expressed his displeasure with the current administration.
He further called on the President to ensure that medics are recognised and well represented in the Kenya Kwanza government.
“This is the first time since independence that the country top policy and government leadership has completely left out a key sector and the profession in the consideration for leadership,” Dr Davji said.
“More than 250 doctors applied for the position of principal secretary, 47 were shortlisted and more than 5 were interviewed from the final list provided by the PSC. We cannot continue contributing to healthcare in this country yet we are being excluded.”
The secretary general also pointed out at the lack of government commitment to enhance the welfare of the medics.
The conference, therefore, resolved to continue pushing for the welfare of the members as well as full implementation 2017-21 Collective Bargaining Agreement and that of 2022-27.
The medics also weighed in on the National Hospital Insurance Fund which they say although it is a noble idea the institution management and governance structures have remained unstable with no director for over a year.
“Leadership stability at the NHIF is a key ingredient to making the institution functional and effective for Kenyans, sometimes you don’t need to have a change to make progress,” Dr Attelah said.
