KMPDU, Machakos County gov't in fresh push to enforce return-to-work agreement

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has opened a new round of engagement with the Machakos County Government, seeking to tighten compliance with the Return-to-Work Formula (RTWF) signed earlier between the two sides.

In a statement on Tuesday, KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah said union officials from the Lower Eastern branch - led by Chairman Dr. Charles Okumu - held talks with senior county administrators to address pending commitments affecting doctors’ welfare and career progression.

According to the union, Machakos County has agreed to effect long-pending medical staff promotions within 30 days. The plan includes upgrading doctors to the next job group and issuing an internal call for applications for specialist positions.

Dr. Atellah noted that the county also committed to honoring due promotions for common cadres, including payment of arrears from their effective dates. “Specialists are to be promoted effective July 1st, 2025,” he said.

The union further confirmed that the county’s medical cover will continue uninterrupted, with the Jubilee Insurance contract scheduled for renewal on Wednesday.

However, some issues remain unresolved. Social Health Authority (SHA) remittances are still outstanding, and Dr. Atellah said contempt proceedings related to the earlier RTWF agreement will continue even as talks progress. “Engagement continues to ensure full compliance,” he stated.

KMPDU reiterated its firm stance on enforcing all agreements signed with counties. “As a union, we shall leave no stone unturned in pursuit of our members’ welfare,” Dr. Atellah affirmed.

The talks mark the latest in a series of union-led efforts across the country to push devolved units to meet obligations owed to healthcare workers.