This archive report was first published on 21 August 2020.
On August 21, 2020, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and Nairobi Metropolitan Service Director General Maj Gen Mohamed Badi made a joint appeal to Nairobi's healthcare workers to return to duty and engage in dialogue regarding their pay hike demands.
The two leaders emphasized the need for healthcare workers to make sacrifices during the COVID-19 pandemic, which affects all counties in Kenya.
"We will follow the law and reimburse the balances you have," Sonko said, addressing the healthcare workers. "Let us stop inciting workers, we as the leaders are committed to address your concerns," he added.
However, the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) - Nairobi chapter has expressed frustration over the government's failure to address their grievances. The union has stated that medical doctors in Nairobi have had no comprehensive medical cover since July 1.
Thuranira Kaugiria, KMPDU Nairobi Branch Secretary, pointed out that many doctors have been forced to foot their bills severally, which is against their collective bargaining agreement.
