The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) has threatened the immediate withdrawal of all healthcare workers from Kitengela Sub-County Hospital following a violent assault on the facility during the Saba Saba Day protests.
According to KUCO, a group of armed individuals stormed the hospital on Sunday, disrupting operations, assaulting staff and patients, and vandalising medical infrastructure. Equipment was reportedly stolen, and several departments were left in disarray.
A Caesarean section procedure was underway when the attackers broke into the theatre, allegedly harassing medical personnel mid-surgery and forcing a suspension of the operation.
In a statement, KUCO condemned the incident, calling it a gross violation of the rights and safety of health professionals, and cited the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act to justify the withdrawal.
“We condemn in the strongest terms possible the attacks on clinical officers and other health workers at Kitengela Subcounty Hospital… This calls for immediate withdrawal of all health workers in line with the OSH Act,” the union said.
The Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) and the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) also condemned the incident, urging the government to take urgent action to ensure the safety of health personnel and facilities.
The Kenya Progressive Nurses Association (KPNA) issued a stern warning, signalling the possibility of wider industrial action.
“If there will be targeting on our healthcare workers, then we will be forced to withdraw our services from the affected areas,” said KPNA Secretary General, Michael Nyongesa.
The government has yet to issue an official response. Police say investigations into the attack are underway.
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