KMPDU demands answers as Kisumu fails to remit health deductions

The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) is demanding answers from the Kisumu County Government over the failure to remit health deductions taken from doctors’ salaries.

 In a letter acknowledged by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection on Monday, April 22, the union said Kisumu has been deducting contributions  meant for the Social Health Authority (SHA) but has not transferred the funds, leaving doctors to pay for care out of pocket.

“Delayed remittance to the Social Health Authority has forced doctors to cover health costs out-of-pocket,” said Chief Industrial Relations Officer Raphael Tiktik.

The complaint forms part of a broader industrial dispute, with KMPDU also citing delayed promotions, frozen hiring, rejection of Madison Insurance by hospitals and continued employment of doctors on casual terms.

The Ministry has appointed Kisumu Labour Officer Rabong’o Marlyne Wakhungu to mediate the conflict.

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 At the same time, the union has been directed to hold off its strike plans and participate in dialogue.

“Ms. Rabong’o Marlyne will assist the parties through dialogue in resolving the industrial dispute,” said Tiktik.

The letter was copied to the Central Organisation of Trade Unions and the Federation of Kenya Employers.