The Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers has condemned what they called a barbaric and senseless act on members and other health personnel at Kitengela Health Centre during Monday's Saba Saba protests.
This is after goons invaded Kitengela Hospital on Monday evening, disrupting services.
The goons disrupted an ongoing C-section and vandalised the theatre. They lit a fire at the hospital gate.
The health workers and vulnerable patients were caught in a shameful wave of lawlessness perpetrated by organised goons who descended upon the facility with violence, destruction, and complete disregard for human life.
"Health workers risk their lives daily to save others. They serve with dedication, compassion, and professionalism even in the most difficult conditions," the union said in a statement on Tuesday.
"To be met with violence, intimidation, and destruction while doing their noble duty is beyond unacceptable. It is a national disgrace," the statement read.
KNULMO said that the public should know that attacking a hospital is an act of self-destruction and that they are not only attacking the government but also attacking an institution that their own families, children, and parents will run to when their life hangs in the balance.
"This is not only merely ignorance, this is primitive lawlessness of the worst order. It is reckless, cowardly, and utterly deplorable."
Pius Nyakundi, the Secretary General, has called on the government to arrest and prosecute the goons captured on camera vandalising hospital equipment, destroying property, and setting hospital sections ablaze.
He also demanded the enforcement of security in health facilities, especially in areas marked with unrest.
"As the recognised voice of Medical Laboratory Officers in Kenya and health professionals at large, we will not sit back as our members are maimed, harassed, or killed in the line of duty," the union said.
"If those responsible for this heinous act are not brought to justice, and if immediate tangible measures are not taken to assure us of our safety, we shall mobilize and withdraw our members on the altar of state inaction."
Nyakundi urged Kenyans to see health workers as their partners and not enemies.
"When we serve you, we serve our nation. Therefore, protect the health facility the same way you would protect your home, your children, and your very life," he said.
He assured the union members of their safety, dignity, and right to serve without fear.
"To the government—act now or risk losing the very people you rely on to heal the nation," he said.
