Kindiki calls for talks to avert nurses’ strike, warns of wider labour unrest

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called for urgent talks between the Ministry of Health, the Council of Governors, and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission to resolve outstanding issues before a planned strike by nurses and midwives. Kindiki warned that unresolved disputes could disrupt essential health services and potentially trigger a broader labour unrest.

Speaking at a special session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council in Nairobi, he urged government bodies to engage with the unions to conclude negotiations and prevent disruptions. The Deputy President acknowledged the government's efforts to maintain uninterrupted healthcare services thus far but emphasized the need for prompt action to address the concerns of public servants.

He placed responsibility on the Council of Governors and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, highlighting the importance of protecting healthcare continuity and avoiding wage disparities that could fuel labour disputes. Kindiki also urged the Salaries and Remuneration Commission to hold closed-door consultations with government officials to address emerging concerns from the salary review process and prevent wider unrest in the public sector.