The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has protested the arrest of veteran obstetrician and gynaecologist Job Obwaka, 83, who was detained at Muthaiga Police Station under what the union describes as unclear circumstances.
In a statement on March 14, 2026, the union said the doctor was arrested at his clinic at the NSSF Building and is accused of falsifying a members’ register, an allegation it argues falls outside his mandate and occurred when he was not present.
The doctors’ union said the arrest of the elderly medic had sent shockwaves through the country’s medical community.
“Earlier this morning, Dr. Obwaka was arrested under unclear and disturbing circumstances at his parking bay at the NSSF Building in Nairobi, where his clinic is located. Following the arrest, he was transferred to Muthaiga Police Station, where he is currently being held,” the statement read in part.
The union described Dr. Obwaka as a long-serving practitioner who has dedicated decades to providing care to mothers and families across Kenya.
“Dr. Obwaka is a highly respected practitioner who has devoted his professional life to the service of mothers, families, and the broader Kenyan community,” KMPDU said, noting that the arrest had caused “great shock, concern, and disbelief among doctors across the country.”
According to the union, the allegations against the veteran doctor relate to the falsification of a members’ register, a responsibility it says falls under a different office.
“We are informed that Dr. Obwaka is being accused of falsifying the register of members, a function that falls squarely under the mandate and custodianship of the Office of the Company Secretary,” the statement said.
The union further questioned the basis of the accusations, saying the doctor was not present when the alleged irregularities occurred.
“It is important to note that Dr. Obwaka was not present at the time when the alleged irregularities in these records are said to have occurred, raising serious questions about the basis and fairness of the accusations being levelled against him,” it added.
KMPDU also expressed concern over reports that the doctor had not been granted cash bail despite the offence reportedly being bailable in law.
“Even more concerning is the fact that authorities have reportedly refused to grant him cash bail, despite the alleged offence being bailable in law, citing unspecified ‘instructions from above,’” the union said.
The union called on authorities to ensure that the doctor’s rights are respected and that due legal procedures are followed.
“We stand firmly with Dr. Job Obwaka and demand that he be treated with dignity, fairness, and full respect for his constitutional rights,” the statement said.
It further urged authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the arrest and to ensure that justice is pursued professionally and transparently.
“KMPDU will closely monitor this matter and will not hesitate to take all lawful measures necessary to protect the rights and dignity of our members,” said the union’s Secretary General, Davji Bhimji Atellah.