The Kenya Medical Association and Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) have condemned the brutality meted out to members of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU) during protests held in Nairobi on Thursday, February 29, 2024.
KMPDU had earlier indicated its Secretary General Davji Atellah was shot during protests over the delayed posting of medical interns.
In a statement, KMA Secretary General Diana Marion and ICJ Kenya chair Protas Saende said the violence against Atellah and other peaceful protesters was unacceptable.
“The Kenya Medical Association vehemently condemns the recent act of police brutality against Dr. Davji Bhimji the Secretary-General and CEO of Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU), an unarmed Kenyan citizen who was advocating for the rights of young doctors exhibited via peaceful legal demonstrations.
“Violence against healthcare professionals is unacceptable and goes against the principles of compassion and care that the medical profession stands for,” Marion said.
Marion called for a thorough investigation into the incident to bring the officers involved to book.
“Peaceful protest is a fundamental right and the use of excessive force by law enforcement authorities is unacceptable and undermines the principles of a just and democratic society. We call for a thorough investigation into this incident and urge the authorities to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We cannot be a nation which attacks its doctors,” Marion stated.
Saende, on his part, called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to swing into action and ensure the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
“As a Commission of Jurists, we urge the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take immediate action to investigate these incidents of excessive use of force and hold those responsible accountable.
“Law enforcement agencies must be trained in the principles of proportionality and respect for human rights to ensure the protection of citizens during assemblies. We call on the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure that the officers are prosecuted to the full extent of the law and, if need be invoke the principle of Command Responsibility,” Saende stated.
At the same time, KMA urged the Ministry of Health to resolve the issue of internship postings for new doctors.
“We express great disappointment and concern that doctors are forced to picket to be posted as medical interns by the government,” Marion said.
“This delay not only affects the career progression but has a significant impact on the entire healthcare system and the capacity to meet the health needs of the Kenyan population.”
KMPDU protests
Attellah had earlier in the week written to the Nairobi Regional Police Commander requesting security during the procession.
The march was scheduled to begin at the Kenya Medical Association Centre in Upper Hill, then proceed to the Ministry of Health offices and finally, the Treasury headquarters in the city center.
“We write to inform you of our intention to conduct a peaceful procession concerning the delayed posting of medical interns and the payment of fees for postgraduate students. The procession is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 29th February 2024, commencing at 9:30 am,” Atellah wrote.
“In light of the importance of maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all participants, we kindly request your assistance in providing security during this event,” he added.
The police are yet to comment on the alleged shooting incident.
