Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on the Council of Governors and the nurses’ union to urgently resolve the ongoing labour dispute, warning that prolonged disruptions to public healthcare services could have far-reaching consequences for Kenya’s social and economic stability.
Kindiki stressed that a functional and reliable healthcare system is a critical pillar of national development, noting that prolonged industrial action not only affects healthcare workers but also places vulnerable patients and their families at greater risk.
He urged both sides to return to the negotiating table and work towards a fair and sustainable agreement that addresses the legitimate concerns of nurses while ensuring that essential medical services remain accessible to the public.
The Deputy President said the interests and welfare of patients must remain at the center of the negotiations, particularly those who rely on public hospitals and health centers for essential and often life-saving services. He cautioned that continued disagreements could further strain an already critical sector and disproportionately affect patients who cannot afford alternative private healthcare.
Given that most health services are managed by county governments under Kenya’s devolved system of governance, Kindiki emphasized the shared responsibility of county leadership and union representatives in finding a lasting solution to the dispute.
He called for constructive engagement, mutual understanding and a willingness by both parties to make reasonable compromises in the interest of the country.
Kindiki further advocated for a long-term, dialogue-driven framework for resolving labor disputes in the health sector, saying recurring disagreements should be addressed through structured negotiations rather than prolonged strikes and service disruptions.
He said a permanent solution would not only protect the rights and welfare of healthcare workers but also provide stability for public health facilities and ensure that Kenyans can access essential medical services without interruption.
The Deputy President maintained that the government remains committed to supporting constructive dialogue between the two sides, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of patients and the continuity of healthcare services as they work towards resolving the outstanding grievances.
He warned that continued disruption of healthcare services could deepen the challenges facing vulnerable communities and undermine broader efforts to improve Kenya’s health system.
He therefore urged both the Council of Governors and the nurses’ union to act with urgency and responsibility to restore normal operations in public health facilities.
