NO DEAL! Doctors strike continues to bite as return to work talks fail

Talks between doctors the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) and the government have once again failed.

This comes after three days of intense mediation talks that were hosted by the Ministry of Labour in a bid to end the ongoing strike.

In a statement to newsrooms, the union’s Secretary General Dr. Ouma Oluga says that despite the government’s recent acknowledgement of the 2013 Collective Bargaining Agreement, no offer has been given to the medics.

“It is important for all Kenyans to understand that doctors want the document agreed upon and procedurally signed on 27th June 2013 implemented and not merely sinister pay offers without the CBA framework as was agreed,” read the statement in part.

Oluga now says that the doctors will continue with their strike that entered its 16th day today.

“It is very unfortunate that 13 days into a national doctors strike and with a very clear proposal on CBA implementation from KMPDU, there is little commitment from the Government to help both doctors and members of the public who have remained victims of a dysfunctional health system.”

The union has, however, assured Kenyans that it is committed to finding a solution and remains willing to engage as far as the implementation of the CBA is concerned.

Among the demands put out by the medics include the full implementation of the 2013 Collective Bargaining Agreement that, among other things, will see them receive a 300% pay rise, more doctors recruited to reduce the current doctor to patient ratio that stands at 1:16,000 and improve their working conditions.

Speaking after the failed talks, Labour Cabinet Secretary Phylis Kandie however said that the doctors have rejected a counter offer by the government as talks continue on the implementation of the 2013 CBA.

“Until both parties agree, it is going to be difficult to move forward. The two parties are still discussing and we are hopeful they are going to agree” said CS Kandie.

“We are all sensitive to this strike, is urgent and we have made them understand that they need to come to an agreement as soon as possible” she added.