By Lauryne Akoth
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has commended the doctors’ and Government’s move to end the 56-day nationwide strike.
In a statement dated 8th May, Raila expressed his gratitude for both parties finding common ground and urged both parties to uphold their ends of the bargain.
“Our congratulations to the Kenya Dentists and Medical Practitioners Union on the successful negotiations with the government, leading to the Return to Work Formula agreed on today,” said Raila.
” We regret that this agreement came against the backdrop of pain and duress to the public, which could have been avoided. We are glad that the two parties were able to find common ground and end the long. running dispute. Now every side must keep its side of the bargain,” he further added.
He urged the government to promptly follow through on its commitment, demonstrating a willingness to learn from past mistakes in disregarding court orders.
” The government must immediately implement its commitment as proof that it has learnt lessons on the fault of intransigence and refusal to honour CBAs and court rulings,” read the statement in part.
“The health workers must also show good faith by honouring their side of the agreement signed today. We are watching and we will not hesitate to call out the party that betrays today’s deal,” noted the former prime Minister.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentist Union (KMPDU) signed a return-to-work formula marking the end of the 56-day nationwide doctors strike on 8th May.
During the meeting, which was attended by KMPDU chair Abi Mwachi, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Labour Cabinet Secretary Hon. Florence Bore, and other officials from both parties, KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah announced the cessation of the industrial action.
Read More: Doctors’ Strike Called Off After Both Parties Signed Return To Work Formula
“I want to thank the able leadership of KMPDU who believe that justice must be done and must be done now. The strike that began on the 13th of March, 2024 has been called off,” announced Atellah.
The health CS on her part stated, “After long and painstaking negotiations that ran into the wee hours of the night for many days, I am pleased that we are finally here we have signed a return-to-work formula and the union has called off the strike.”
However, it was apparent that one of the primary grievances behind the strike, the placement and compensation of intern doctors, remained inadequately addressed, leaving it in a state of uncertainty.
The government stated that this issue is currently under the jurisdiction of the Labour Relations Court of Kenya in Eldoret, and as such, it is suspended pending a final resolution.