The Kenya Medical practitioners, pharmacists and dentists’ union (KMPDU), Nyanza region has warned the Kisii county government of industrial action following persistent delays in payment of salaries to its workers.
In a notice sent to the Governor and other county officials on Wednesday, the union outlined the plan to progressively reduce services if their salaries are not settled within the given time frame.
KMPDU Nyanza branch Secretary Dr. Aggrey Orwenyo noted that delays in settling salaries and associated by-products had caused the members significant financial hardship and emotional pain.
Dr. Orwenyo urged the county government to immediately settle all the monthly dues before 5th of the following month to prevent any disruptions to patient care and service delivery.
He stated that doctors would initiate a go-slow if the salaries are delayed beyond the fifth day succeeding the month and would only provide emergency services if payment is not made by the tenth day.
“Delay after the 15th day of the succeeding month: Our members shall immediately withdraw their labour and skills until such a time when they are paid in full,” the notice stated.
The planned industrial action is expected to severely paralyze essential public health services if the county authorities fail to resolve salary delays before the next payroll cycle.
by Malachi Omwenga and Whitney Moraa
