Clinicians' strike looms in Machakos as County ignores court order, promises

By Virginia Siebela 

A healthcare crisis is looming in Machakos County after clinicians issued a seven-day strike notice, citing persistent neglect and unfulfilled promises by the county government.

Speaking at Machakos Level 5 Hospital, Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) National Chairperson Peterson Wachira revealed that union officials were left stranded for over three hours waiting for a scheduled meeting with county officials—who never showed up.

Wachira said the breakdown of talks was the final straw, noting that since December last year, clinicians have received nothing but empty promises, despite Governor Wavinya Ndeti's public directive that their promotions and salary increments take effect from May 2025—none of which has been honored.

The clinicians are now warning residents to brace for service disruptions, squarely blaming the county administration for violating a court order that had directed the resolution of their grievances.

KUCO Secretary-General George Gibore said more than 300 clinicians across the county have been sidelined for over seven months, despite funds having been allocated in the previous budget to address their concerns.

“We are tired of lip service. The county has not only ignored our welfare but has also defied a lawful court directive,” said Gibore.

Echoing similar sentiments, KUCO Deputy Chairperson Bonface Mitambo accused the county of exhibiting bad faith and failing to demonstrate any commitment to dialogue or the court ruling.

With the strike deadline fast approaching, the standoff sets the stage for a potential healthcare paralysis unless urgent interventions are made.