The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has threatened to call a nationwide strike over what it terms the “unfair and mysterious” arrest of officials linked to Nairobi Hospital.
Speaking after visiting the detained officials at Muthaiga Police Station, KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah demanded their immediate release, warning that doctors would down their tools if no action is taken.
At the centre of the dispute is Dr Job Obwaka, an 83-year-old obstetrician and board member at Nairobi Hospital, who was arrested on Saturday under unclear circumstances at his clinic located in the NSSF Building. He remains in custody despite his age and growing pressure from the union.
KMPDU has raised concern over the basis of the charges, stating that Obwaka is accused of falsifying the hospital’s membership register—a function the union insists falls under the company secretary’s office. The union further argues that the doctor was not present when the alleged irregularities occurred.
Other detained officials include board vice chair Samson Kinyanjui, also held at Muthaiga, while directors Valery Gaya and Chris Bichage are reportedly being held at Pangani Police Station.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has linked the arrests to disputes surrounding the hospital’s 2024 annual general meeting. Lawyers claim the matter is part of a broader power struggle over control of the institution.
Opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, have accused William Ruto of orchestrating the arrests—claims the government has not responded to.
By Monday morning, the officials were still in custody, raising fears of disruption in healthcare services if doctors proceed with the planned strike.
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