The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has condemned a violent assault on healthcare workers at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Muthaiga Branch following an incident reported on June 5, 2026.

The union described the incident as “decayed and preposterous” after relatives of a minor patient attacked a paediatric dentist, theatre staff, and members of the nursing team during treatment at the facility.

KMPDU National officials stated that the incident reflects a growing concern over workplace violence in health facilities.

The union said, “No healthcare worker should be subjected to threats, abuse, or physical assault while providing care to patients.” It noted that the attack highlights risks faced by medical staff in the course of duty, particularly in high-pressure clinical environments.

“”The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has received disturbing reports of violence against Healthcare Workers. These actions are grossly unsettling,” read the statement dated June 9, 2026, in part.

Union response and call for action

KMPDU Secretary General Davji Bhimji Atellah said the violence represents an attack on the healthcare system. He stated that such incidents compromise patient care, undermine staff morale, and create unsafe working environments for both healthcare workers and patients.

The union commended the affected staff for maintaining professionalism during the incident and expressed solidarity with them.

KMPDU called on the National Police Service and the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to carry out prompt investigations, identify those involved, and ensure prosecution in accordance with the law. The union emphasised that there must be zero tolerance for violence against healthcare workers.

The statement also urged the management of Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Muthaiga Branch to cooperate fully with investigations by providing surveillance footage, witness statements, and relevant records to support the process of identifying those responsible.

Healthcare safety concerns

The union noted that the incident adds to a broader pattern of violence against healthcare workers in Kenya. It stated that medical professionals continue to face verbal abuse, intimidation, and physical attacks from relatives of patients, particularly in emergency and paediatric settings.

KMPDU reiterated that healthcare facilities must remain places of care and treatment, not environments of intimidation. It emphasised the need for accountability and stronger protections for health workers across the country. The union also called for improved safety measures within hospitals to protect staff and patients.