Doctors’ union explains why Dr Obwaka was arrested, protests action
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) protested the arrest of veteran obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. Job Obwaka, terming the circumstances surrounding his detention unclear and troubling.
In a statement issued on Saturday, KMPDU Secretary General Davji Bhimji Atellah said the 83-year-old doctor was arrested earlier in the morning at his parking bay at the NSSF Building in Nairobi, where his clinic is located.
According to the union, Dr. Obwaka was later taken to Muthaiga Police Station, where he was held.
KMPDU described Dr. Obwaka as a respected practitioner who has served patients for decades, particularly in maternal healthcare.
“The arrest has caused great shock, concern and disbelief among doctors across the country, members of the Kenya Hospital Association, staff of The Nairobi Hospital and the wider medical fraternity,” the union said.
The doctors’ union said it had been informed that the medic is being accused of falsifying a register of members, a function it claims falls under the Office of the Company Secretary.
KMPDU further argued that Dr. Obwaka was not present when the alleged irregularities in the records are said to have occurred, raising questions about the basis of the accusations.
The union also expressed concern that authorities had reportedly declined to grant the doctor cash bail despite the alleged offence being bailable under Kenyan law, allegedly citing unspecified “instructions from above”.
“KMPDU stands firmly with Dr. Obwaka and demands that he be treated with dignity, fairness and full respect for his constitutional rights,” Atellah said.
Dr Obwaka, the Nairobi Hospital Vice Chairman Samson Kinyanjui and former hospital chairman Dr Chris Bichage detained at Muthaiga and Pangani cells over running of the facility pending plea taking
The union called on authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrest and to ensure due legal process is followed, including granting bail.
It also urged investigative agencies to act with restraint and professionalism to ensure justice is pursued without intimidation or undue influence.
KMPDU said it will closely monitor the matter and take lawful measures to protect the rights and dignity of its members.
The arrests have prompted protests amid claims it was part of the plans to interfere with the running of the hospital.