Deputy President William Ruto has asked the Ministry of Health, County governments and the health workers unions to find an amicable solution to the ongoing strike.
He said the industrial action was threatening the lives of millions of Kenyans, especially during this coronavirus era. The Deputy President said engaging in shouting matches among the concerned parties was not only unhealthy but also dangerous for the nation.
“The challenge that we now have is the shouting matches among the ministry of health, county governments and the health workers unions. This is unhealthy and dangerous for our nation,” said Dr Ruto.
Addressing leaders from Webuye East, Bungoma County, at his Sugoi home in Uasin Gishu County, on Wednesday, the Deputy President said a platform for negotiation should be embraced to ensure Kenyan lives and those of health workers are not endangered.
“We must protect the lives of nurses, doctors and Kenyans should be protected. This is why we must have a mechanism to ensure no side loses in this matter,” said Dr Ruto.
He added: “The ministry of health, county governments, doctors and nurses should find a commonality to agree on how to manage the situation so as not to get out of control.” At the same time, Dr Ruto said failure by some leaders to concede defeat was to blame for chaotic situations witnessed after every general election in the country.
“If leaders could accept defeat after every election, there could be no chaotic situations in this country,” said Dr Ruto.
He said the problems facing the country were largely because of poor leadership, noting that leaders were focused on issues beneficial to them at the expense of service delivery.
“Leaders should focus on addressing challenges facing majority of Kenyans above their own selfish gains if we are to reduce poverty and unemployment among Kenyans,” he said.