Governor George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia has ruled out further negotiations with nurses on strike over pay, saying the boycott is politically driven.
Speaking in Kitale town on Saturday, Natembeya said his administration had made efforts to improve the nurses’ terms and conditions.
“We just promoted some of the nurses recently, but the union officials still went ahead to support the strike because of tribal and political reasons meant to portray us as failures,” he said.
He further alleged that the union leaders were being influenced to frustrate his administration and disrupt healthcare services.
Knun secretary general Seth Panyako, however, dismissed Natembeya’s assertions, insisting that the strike was based on genuine grievances.
“We urge Governor Natembeya to address the issues raised by the nurses because there is nothing political about them,” he said.
More than 2,500 nurses in the county are demanding salary increments recommended by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission.
They also want issuance of appointment letters for new recruits and improved security at health facilities.
The county is further grappling with a shortage of nurses due to retirements and resignations, prompting calls for fresh recruitment.
The striking nurses are also citing poor working conditions, inadequate medical equipment, delayed allowances and the county employment board’s failure to address their grievances, including overdue promotions.
Even as the dispute continues, Natembeya assured residents that services at the Wamalwa Kijana Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kitale would remain uninterrupted.
He pledged to complete all pending works at the facility and ensure it is adequately stocked with essential drugs and supplies.
On Saturday, the county delivered a Sh35 million consignment of medicines and non-pharmaceutical supplies to the hospital.
The consignment, which includes drugs for eye care, mental health and other critical treatments, will also be distributed to dispensaries, health centres and subcounty hospitals.
According to county officials, the supplies are expected to last at least three months.
“This consignment includes essential supplies, such as eye medication for Kitale Eye Clinic and drugs for the mental health unit,” Health chief officer Judith Simiyu said.
She praised Natembeya’s administration for ensuring facilities remain stocked while cautioning health workers against misuse.
“We assure residents that these drugs will not be misappropriated. Every health worker must ensure they are used appropriately and responsibly,” Simiyu said.
