By Treezer Michelle Atieno
The healthcare system in Kenya is in turmoil as doctors and medical staff enter the fifth week of their nationwide strike, leaving hospitals overwhelmed and patients in distress. The strike, driven by demands for better pay and working conditions, has brought the country’s healthcare services to a standstill, with citizens bearing the brunt of the crisis.
As the strike persists, ordinary Kenyans find themselves caught in the chaos. Hoping to receive treatment, they continue to be met with empty promises and unattended medical needs. With each passing day, their health deteriorates, highlighting the dire consequences of the ongoing strike on patients across the country.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has stepped forward to address the escalating situation. The commission issued a press statement, expressing grave concern over the impact of the strike on citizens’ right to healthcare. Emphasizing the state’s responsibility to uphold human rights, the KNCHR has called for urgent action to resolve the crisis and restore access to medical services for all Kenyans.
Article 41 of the Constitution guarantees every worker the right to fair remuneration and reasonable working conditions, a principle echoed by the striking medical practitioners. However, the strike’s disruption of healthcare services has left many patients without access to essential treatment, leading to reports of deaths and increased medical expenses for those seeking care at private facilities.
Furthermore, the KNCHR has condemned acts of violence and intimidation against protesters, reaffirming the right to peaceful assembly as a cornerstone of democracy. The commission has urged both the government and the striking doctors to engage in genuine dialogue to find a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of citizens.
As the strike enters its fifth week, the impact on ordinary Kenyans becomes increasingly dire. Hospitals and clinics struggle to cope with the influx of patients, while families grapple with the uncertainty of accessing essential medical care.
