The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union has announced industrial action in Mombasa County following the suspension of Coast General Hospital CEO, Dr. Iqbal Khandwalla.
The union says doctors will provide only emergency services, citing safety concerns and alleging lack of proper authorisation and protection from intimidation in the workplace.
In a statement dated February 23, 2026, the union said it had taken note of the County Government of Mombasa’s position, describing the suspension as a routine procedural step. However, KMPDU said the circumstances surrounding the action raised serious concerns.
“Doctors are now willing to speak up about the conditions they work under. We shall not be silent as we are being used as sacrificial lambs in a failed system,” the statement read.
The union questioned whether there had been a properly authorised decision from the County Public Service Board, stating, “To date, there has been no clear demonstration of a properly deliberated and authorised resolution of the County Public Service Board. Assurances of fairness cannot substitute statutory compliance.”
KMPDU also raised concerns about what it termed a hostile working environment preceding the suspension.
It alleged that “tribal and demeaning expletives were publicly directed at our member while on duty,” adding that no formal condemnation or administrative action had been taken.
“Our members remain apprehensive about their safety,” the union said, arguing that workplace security mechanisms had previously failed to prevent a political gathering within an emergency triage area.
The union further stated that public commentary before a formal hearing had undermined confidence in the process.
“Public condemnation of our member before he has been heard further undermines confidence in the process,” it said.
As a result, KMPDU announced immediate measures affecting healthcare delivery in the county. “Doctors in Mombasa County will continue to prioritise their safety,” the statement said.
The union outlined the scope of service restrictions: “Only minimal emergency and life-saving services shall be provided.” It added that “there shall be no consultants’ clinics and no elective procedures until the situation de-escalates and adequate administrative safeguards are put in place.”
KMPDU confirmed it had issued a seven-day strike notice, which it said would end on March 3, 2026.
The union leadership, led by Secretary General and CEO Dr. Davji Atellah, said doctors remain committed to patient care but require protection and adherence to due process.
“Doctors remain committed to saving lives. However, they cannot operate in a climate of intimidation or in the shadow of presumed guilt,” the statement read. “Due process and workplace safety must be restored.”
The union said it remained open to engagement with authorities, provided discussions addressed both patient protection and staff safety.
“We remain open to constructive engagement that protects our patients, our members, and upholds the law,” it said.
The dispute comes amid heightened attention to working conditions in public health facilities across the country.
The Mombasa County Government has maintained that the suspension followed established procedures, though KMPDU disputes the adequacy of the process.
Union officials, including Deputy Chairman Dr. Kahura Mundia and Deputy Secretary General Dr. Miskellah Dennis, endorsed the statement.
The outcome of negotiations over the next week will determine whether services resume fully or whether the planned action proceeds as announced.
