Clinical Officers Union demands probe after violent attack during peaceful protest

Kuco Secretary General George Gibore /GEORGE GIBORE/X

The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers is calling for immediate investigations following a violent attack on its members during a peaceful demonstration at Nairobi’s City Hall.

The protest, held on Tuesday, May 13, was aimed at presenting a petition to Governor Johnson Sakaja over unresolved labour disputes with the Nairobi City County Government.

The procession was organised by KUCO Nairobi branch in line with the Constitution and the Employment Act.

Issues at stake include the failure to promote and redesignate clinical officers, and the county’s failure to implement the approved Career Guideline for Clinical Officers as agreed in the 2024 return-to-work formula.

In a statement signed by the Secretary General George Gibore, the union said the demonstration was peaceful and legally protected.

The union strongly condemned the violence.

“The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (Kuco), on behalf of all clinical officers across the country, in particular those in Nairobi county, unequivocally condemns in the strongest terms the acts of violence, intimidation, and unprovoked destruction of property executed against our members during this peaceful procession,” the statement reads.

The union claimed the attackers identified themselves as operatives affiliated with the Nairobi County Government.

The union alleges that the individuals assaulted clinical officers and vandalised union property, including an official vehicle and public address equipment.

The incident allegedly occurred in full view of both National Police Service officers and Nairobi County Enforcement personnel.

The union described the incident as a violation of the Constitution, the Labour Relations Act, and other laws protecting peaceful assembly and industrial action.

“This incident reflects a gross affront to the rule of law and an attack on frontline health professionals,” Kuco stated.

The union is demanding swift action from authorities.

“We demand that the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations immediately initiate investigation, apprehend and prosecute the assailants to ensure accountability and the restoration of law and order, because they are known,” the statement said.

The union claimed that it possesses credible evidence identifying those responsible.

The union has also called on the county government to intervene and resolve the ongoing impasse over the human resource grievances that informed the peaceful protests.

Kuco said the ensuing impasse was denying Nairobi citizens critical services.

Gibore emphasised the need for constructive dialogue and lawful resolution of the dispute to restore industrial harmony and allow clinical officers to resume their duties.