As the doctors’ strike in Kiambu County enters its 139th day, religious leaders have stepped forward to clarify the state of healthcare services, refuting claims of a crisis and urging an end to politicization. The ongoing dispute between the county government and striking doctors has fueled tensions, prompting calls for urgent dialogue.
After visiting Kiambu and Thika Level Five hospitals, a group of religious leaders issued a statement debunking rumors of unattended patients or unexplained deaths. Labeling such reports as “propaganda,” they confirmed that healthcare facilities remain operational, with non-striking doctors deployed by the county government to sustain services. At Kiambu Hospital, the clergy verified that patient care, including for pregnant women, post-delivery mothers, and breastfeeding mothers, continues smoothly with no reported child fatalities. They stressed that health services are too vital to be politicized and urged all parties to avoid exaggerating the situation.
Prominent figures, including former Kiambu Governor Dr. James Nyoro, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, have called for immediate negotiations to resolve the standoff. Kuria offered to mediate, emphasizing the need to prioritize residents’ welfare over assigning blame. Nyoro urged the County Assembly to facilitate talks between the county government and the doctors’ union.
The strike, initiated by doctors employed by the county government over unresolved issues including delayed salaries, inadequate working conditions, and unmet demands for better contracts, has strained healthcare delivery. While alternative medical staff maintain services, the strike persists, with a court case pending. Religious and political leaders continue to push for a swift, collaborative resolution to ensure uninterrupted healthcare for Kiambu residents.
