The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning an unlawful surgical procedure in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, following the death of a 22-year-old patient who died on 28th May 2026 after developing a severe infection linked to what it termed gross surgical negligence.

In a statement shared on its official X account on Monday, July 1, 2026, the doctors’ umbrella body extended condolences to the bereaved family, saying the death was both preventable and unacceptable.

“KMA extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased patient, a 22-year-old man, who died on 28th May 2026 from severe infection following gross surgical negligence. His death was preventable. He deserved safe, lawful, and competent medical care,” the association said.

The association emphasized that all patients in Kenya are entitled to safe and dignified medical care regardless of their background or location.

KMA noted that available video evidence and official briefings by the county government of Trans Nzoia indicate that a major surgical procedure was carried out without essential surgical infrastructure and basic infection prevention standards.

“As documented in video footage now in the public domain and confirmed by the official media briefing of the County Government of Trans Nzoia, a major surgical procedure was performed in the complete absence of basic surgical infrastructure and infection prevention and control standards,” the statement read.

Call for investigations and accountability

KMA said the conduct amounts to gross medical negligence and must attract full legal consequences.

“The conduct alleged in this case constitutes gross medical negligence under Kenyan law. KMA affirms that negligence of this nature and magnitude must be met with the full force of the law: professional, civil, and criminal,” it stated.

The association called on the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to immediately launch an independent investigation and review the practitioner’s licence.

It further urged the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to determine whether criminal charges should be pursued, citing the severity of the case and loss of life.

Patient safety concerns raised

KMA also raised concern over reports suggesting the practitioner may have a history of substance use disorder, saying such matters must be addressed through proper regulatory channels without compromising patient safety.

“Where a practitioner’s fitness to practice is in question, immediate suspension from clinical duties must follow pending formal assessment,” the association stated.

The body also reminded the public to verify the registration status of doctors and health facilities before seeking medical procedures, stressing that patient safety must always come first.