Union cautions Ayacko as nurses' strike spreads
Politics
By
Bernard Lusigi and Mary Imenza
| Aug 19, 2025
The Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) has cautioned Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko against alleged intimidation of health workers participating in the ongoing strike affecting 15 counties
KNUN Secretary-General Seth Panyako on Sunday accused the Migori county government of hiring goons to intimidate striking nurses instead of addressing their grievances.
“We have received disturbing reports that Migori County is using intimidation tactics against our members. Let it be clear that nurses in Migori will resume duty with promotion letters in hand,” said Panyako.
He added, “About 15 counties are on strike, and they should follow the example of counties like Kakamega, Kitui, Makueni and Marsabit, which have already engaged nurses to avert the strike. Some of these counties have already started implementing parts of the agreement.”
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The union official condemned any form of harassment directed at healthcare workers, saying it violates their right to strike and will only worsen an already tense situation. The nurses’ strike, now entering its third week, has paralysed services in public health facilities.
They are demanding the full implementation of the 2017 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which provided for promotions, salary reviews and improved working conditions.
READ ALSO: Nurses union issues seven-day strike over 'unmet demands'
Union officials say many nurses have stagnated in the same job group despite their qualifications and years of service.
They argue that county governments have failed to honour the CBA, leaving thousands of health workers demoralised.
“This strike is not about politics. It is about fairness and respect for healthcare workers who have served this country diligently,” said Panyako.
KNUN has maintained that the strike will continue indefinitely until counties release promotion letters and implement salary increments as agreed in 2017.
Panyako said governors should stop treating healthcare workers as expendable. He noted that nurses played a critical role during the Covid-19 pandemic and deserve to work in humane conditions.
“We will not be cowed. No amount of intimidation will make us abandon this strike. Governors must respect the CBA,” said the KNUN boss.
The industrial action has disrupted services in several counties, with hospitals operating at minimal capacity.
In some facilities, only emergency cases are being handled. Patients in need of routine care have been turned away, raising concerns of a looming health crisis if the strike drags on.
READ: Nurses issue ultimatum, threaten nationwide strike if demands remain unmet
He warned that prolonged disruption in health services could lead to loss of lives, especially among vulnerable patients.
KNUN has called on the Ministry of Health and the Council of Governors to intervene and facilitate negotiations. The union has also vowed to document and take legal action against county officials accused of harassment.
“Our position remains firm. Implement the CBA, give nurses their promotion letters, and end intimidation,” he said.
Kakamega KNUN branch Secretary-General Eliud Molenje said nurses in his county will not join the ongoing strike, noting that the county government has already engaged them through talks to implement some of their demands.
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