Doctors in Meru and Isiolo counties could withdraw medical services from next month after the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union issued separate strike notices over unresolved labour disputes.
In letters dated May 12, 2026, and signed by KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah, the union accused the two county governments of failing to address concerns related to delayed salaries, staffing shortages and implementation of agreed labour terms.
The union warned that doctors in both counties would begin a strike from midnight on June 2, 2026, if the issues raised are not resolved within 21 days.
In Meru County, KMPDU claimed doctors have continued to face unfair labour practices, including delayed promotions, failure to hire additional medical staff and delays in converting contract doctors to permanent and pensionable terms.
According to the union, some doctors have remained in the same job groups despite meeting requirements set by the Public Service Commission, which it said violates Article 47 of the Constitution.
The union further stated that staff shortages in health facilities have exposed doctors to heavy workloads, fatigue and burnout while also affecting opportunities for study leave.
“The executive’s decision to reallocate all monies set aside in the 2025/2026 budget specifically intended to address the aforementioned grievances, demonstrating a lack of commitment to resolving these labor disputes,” lamented Dr. Atellah.
“Failure to pay arrears arising from the implementation of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) third remuneration review cycle. These mandatory payments to Meru County Doctors remain outstanding,” he added.
In Isiolo County, the union described the healthcare situation as critical, alleging doctors have experienced years of career stagnation and salary delays of up to three months.
KMPDU cited what it termed an egregious case of a doctor who has remained in Job Group Q for three consecutive gubernatorial terms, accusing the county administration of failing to implement career progression guidelines and the Scheme of Service.
The union also accused the county government of failing to remit statutory deductions and medical cover contributions.
According to KMPDU, doctors have allegedly been forced to cater for healthcare expenses from their own pockets despite monthly deductions exceeding Ksh.7,000 for Social Health Authority cover.
The union further claimed pension and statutory deductions had gone unremitted for up to six months, raising concerns over doctors’ financial security.
“The staffing situation at Isiolo Level 5 Hospital is a catastrophe. Currently, only 7 Medical Officers are doing the work of 50, leading to severe burnout and violation of the 40-hour work week.
Additionally, Dr. Atellah said consultants are being unfairly utilized in Job Group MN instead of their rightful Job Group Q.
“We strongly condemn the culture of fear and intimidation orchestrated by senior county officials. Doctors must be allowed to exercise their professional independence without the threat of administrative victimization.”noted Dr. Atellah.
KMPDU said it remains open to negotiations with both county governments but insisted that discussions must lead to concrete action rather than unfulfilled promises.
