Urgent Call to Protect Healthcare Workers and Uphold Medical Neutrality Amidst National Protests
The Kenya Medical Association (KMA), the umbrella professional association for doctors in Kenya, has a twin mandate: to champion the welfare of doctors and to advocate for the highest standard of quality healthcare in the country and beyond.
The KMA strongly condemns the recent acts of police brutality and the use of excessive force against members of the public and healthcare professionals providing emergency medical services to injured protestors in the ongoing national protests. These actions by law enforcement agencies undermine the principles of a just and democratic society and have contributed significantly to the morbidity and mortality witnessed over the last few days.
The actions against healthcare workers and the obstruction of medical services violate the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every citizen the right to health and medical care. Specifically, Article 43 (1)(a) ensures the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including the right to healthcare services.
These acts also contravene international laws and standards. The Geneva Conventions, to which Kenya is a signatory, mandate the protection of medical personnel and the unhindered provision of medical care during times of conflict. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) outlines the necessity of medical neutrality, ensuring that healthcare workers can perform their duties without fear of violence or obstruction.
The World Medical Association (WMA) policy on physician safety, to which KMA adheres, emphasizes the protection and safety of healthcare professionals in all circumstances, particularly during times of crisis.
We are deeply disappointed by the reported attacks and abductions of healthcare workers offering voluntary services to Kenyans exercising their constitutional rights. Violence against healthcare professionals is unacceptable and goes against the principles of compassion and care that the medical profession upholds. Reports of obstructed access to care, barring of ambulances, and attacks on healthcare delivery camps are particularly concerning. Every Kenyan has the right to health and to seek medical attention without fear of harm.
The safety of healthcare workers in their line of duty is critical for the delivery of emergency services during crises such as this. Ensuring their protection is paramount for the continued provision of necessary medical services to those in need.
In light of these events, the KMA recommends the following actions:
- We urge the government and its security agencies to facilitate the movement and ensure the safety and protection of healthcare workers, enabling them to provide essential emergency services without interference.
- KMA appeals to the Ministry of Health to support the delivery of emergency medical services by providing the necessary resources for the timely and appropriate referral of patients.
The medical fraternity remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the profession, its principles, and the duty of care. We call on all stakeholders to uphold the rights of healthcare workers and to ensure the provision of unhindered medical services to all Kenyans, especially during times of national crisis.
