KMPDU Threatens Strike Over ‘Mysterious Arrests’ of Nairobi Hospital Officials
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has issued a strike threat following what it describes as the “unfair and mysterious” arrest of senior officials linked to The Nairobi Hospital, escalating tensions within Kenya’s health sector.
Speaking after visiting the detained officials at Muthaiga Police Station, KMPDU Secretary-General Davji Atellah demanded their immediate release, warning that doctors nationwide could withdraw services if the situation is not resolved.
“Whoever arrested Dr Obwaka has to make him be released before midnight, otherwise we are going to ask every doctor that you are not safe at your place of work and we must stand against injustice,” Atellah said.
At the centre of the dispute is the arrest of Dr Job Obwaka, an 83-year-old obstetrician-gynaecologist and board member of the hospital. According to the union, Obwaka was detained under unclear circumstances on Saturday morning at the parking bay of the NSSF Building, where his private clinic operates.
He was subsequently taken to Muthaiga Police Station, where he spent the night in custody. Union officials, lawyers, and family members visited him on Sunday, but he remained detained despite calls for his release.
KMPDU, however, strongly disputes the basis of the accusations, arguing that responsibility for maintaining membership records lies with the office of the company secretary, not individual board members.
“We are informed that Dr Obwaka is being accused of falsifying the register of members, a function that falls squarely under the mandate and custodianship of the Office of the Company Secretary,” the union said in an earlier statement.
The union further questioned the timing and fairness of the arrest.
“It is important to note that Dr Obwaka was not present at the time when the alleged irregularities are said to have occurred,” the statement added, describing the charges as troubling and unsupported.
Political figures have also weighed in, intensifying the controversy. Former Attorney-General Justin Muturi previously accused the government of attempting to forcefully take control of the hospital, though authorities have not publicly responded to the claim.
Meanwhile, Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, alleged that the arrests were carried out on orders from the highest levels of government.
“The arrest of Board Chairman Dr Job Obwaka and former Chairman Dr Chris Bichage, under direct orders from President Ruto, is absolutely unacceptable and entirely criminal,” Musyoka said.
Government officials have not issued a formal statement confirming or denying political involvement in the matter.
KMPDU has historically led industrial action over working conditions, pay disputes, and professional grievances, making its latest threat a matter of significant public concern.
As tensions continue to mount, patients and healthcare providers alike await a resolution that could determine the stability of medical services across the country in the coming days.
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KMPDU Threatens Strike Over ‘Mysterious Arrests’ of Nairobi Hospital Officials
