Kenya Medical Association condemns police brutality during anti-tax demos

The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has condemned police brutality against civilians and healthcare workers witnessed against anti-Finance Bill protestors on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

The umbrella professional association for doctors, which has a mandate of championing the welfare of doctors and advocating for the highest standard of quality healthcare in the country, said the force used by the security agencies undermines the principles of democracy.

"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," KMA said in a statement signed by its secretary general, Diana Marion.

As the police dealt with the demonstrators, healthcare workers were not spared as they attended to the injured. KMA asserts that these are obstructions to medical services and violate the Constitution.

"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 statement added.

Attacks, abductions condemned

KMA adheres to the World Medical Association's (WMA) policy on physician safety, which emphasizes the protection and safety of healthcare professionals in all circumstances.

"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, the 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 statement continued.

The association believes that the safety of healthcare workers while discharging their duties is critical for the delivery of emergency services. They want their protection to be assured so that they can provide medical services in times of need.

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