Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has agreed to implement delayed promotions for doctors, addressing one of issues that triggered a prolonged strike.
He assured that other demands raised by medics would also be fully addressed in collaboration with the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).
“We agreed on the way forward with KMPDU and as a county, we will work to improve the welfare of all our medics so that they serve our people without any interruptions,” Rotich said.
The agreement came three days after KMPDU called off a two-month strike following negotiations that addressed critical issues, including promotions and job placements.
The return of doctors has restored healthcare services in the county, which had been severely disrupted, particularly at Iten County Referral Hospital.
KMPDU North Rift branch secretary Dr Kamonzi Mule welcomed the move saying the union was pleased that the county had committed to resolving the issues that caused the strike.
“As a union, we will work with them to ensure our members who work in the county are well catered for in terms of promotions and other welfare issues,” Mule said.
Two weeks ago, the county government had threatened to sack doctors who had refused to resume work until their demands were met.
Letters were issued asking the striking medics to show cause why they should not be dismissed.
Mule confirmed that the letters have since been withdrawn.
The more than 70 doctors in Elgeyo Marakwet had been striking to demand the implementation of a 2024 return-to-work agreement, specifically focusing on promotions to correct job groups.
Mule said some doctors had been stuck in the same job group for more than 20 years, with some approaching retirement without ever receiving the promotions due to them.
“We had doctors in the county who are now old and yet they have never been promoted. We are now assured that they will get their promotions,” he said.
Mule also emphasised the need for the county to streamline working conditions and address other welfare issues affecting medics to ensure all concerns are resolved comprehensively.
Governor Rotich reiterated that the county would implement all pending issues raised by doctors.
“Be it good salaries, promotions or other demands, we have done all that is required and we will deal with the few pending issues,” he said.
Rotich further urged doctors to approach negotiations with an open mind while keeping the welfare of patients at the forefront.
He emphasised that restoring health services and maintaining uninterrupted care for residents remains a top priority for the county government.
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