Former Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter has demanded swift intervention from the county government following the disruption of services at Kericho County Referral Hospital due to an ongoing doctors’ strike over unresolved employment grievances.

Taking to his X handle on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, Keter raised concerns over the closure of the county’s main referral hospital, with his criticism directed at the county leadership for what has been described as a failure to address the welfare of healthcare workers and safeguard the delivery of essential medical services.

“What is being witnessed at Kericho County Referral Hospital is deeply regrettable and shocking. Sadly, the county leadership has turned a blind eye to the health sector and the plight of medical personnel serving in this institution,” Keter stated.

Services disrupted

According to the statement, the industrial action stems from unresolved issues including delayed salary payments and stalled promotions for doctors. The strike has forced the closure of the referral hospital, leaving patients without access to critical healthcare services.

The situation has reportedly caused significant hardship for residents who rely on the facility for treatment, with calls mounting for an immediate resolution before the crisis escalates further.

Keter describes the disruption as having caused “untold suffering” to patients and families, emphasising that access to healthcare should not be compromised by administrative failures.

County government urged to act

The county government has been reminded that health is a devolved function under Kenya’s Constitution, making it responsible for ensuring healthcare workers receive fair treatment, timely remuneration, and adequate support to keep public health facilities running effectively.

The statement urges the county administration to act urgently to settle outstanding salary arrears and address doctors’ concerns to facilitate the resumption of normal services at Kericho County Referral Hospital and other health facilities across the county’s sub-counties.

It further stresses that the people of Kericho deserve uninterrupted access to quality healthcare, while healthcare workers deserve dignity, fairness, and prompt compensation for the services they provide.