The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has strongly condemned violence at Naivasha County Referral Hospital following unrest linked to the ongoing nationwide fuel price protests.
In a press statement released Tuesday, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah described the incident as an “alarming security breach” after a rowdy crowd reportedly stormed the facility, disrupted medical operations, and removed a deceased patient’s body from hospital custody.
KMPDU said the incident endangered the lives of healthcare workers and patients at a time when hospitals should remain protected spaces during periods of civil unrest.
“The act of violence severely endangered the lives of doctors and all the healthcare providers on duty, creating a hostile environment in what should be a sanctuary of healing,” the statement read.
The protests, which entered their second day Tuesday, were triggered by rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of living. While the government announced a Sh10 reduction in diesel prices on Monday evening, stakeholders behind the demonstrations insisted the protests would continue, arguing the measures were insufficient.
Authorities have claimed that criminal gangs infiltrated the demonstrations and were responsible for acts of violence and destruction witnessed in some areas.
KMPDU warned that attacks on healthcare facilities directly threaten emergency medical services and the continuity of patient care.
“It is uncalled for that healthcare facilities, the very places the public runs to for emergency medical care during civil unrest, should be targeted with violence,” the union stated.
The doctors’ union further raised concern over reports that ambulances responding to emergencies had been blocked by demonstrators.
“An ambulance in transit carries a life-or-death situation; interfering with it is a direct attack on human life,” said Atellah.
The union urged protesters to allow safe passage for ambulances and medical personnel responding to emergencies.
“We ask that all demonstrating members of the public grant unconditional, safe passage to all ambulances and medical teams trying to reach patients in distress,” the statement added.
KMPDU also called on both the national and county governments to urgently enhance security at hospitals across the country, particularly in areas affected by protests.
The union said the government must assure doctors and all healthcare providers of a peaceful and safe working environment.
Transport remained disrupted in several towns on Tuesday as protests continued.
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