The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists’ Union (KMPDU), which has issued a seven-day strike notice set to expire on March 3, 2026, as one of the measures aimed at protecting its members.

In a letter on their X account on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, KMPDU strongly raised concerns about due process and workplace safety.

The medical union has termed the suspension of Iqbal Khandwala as political intimidation within the county’s health facilities, which is unethical.KMPDU have said that Doctors in Mombasa County will prioritise their safety, limit services to emergency and life-saving care, and suspend consultants’ clinics and elective procedures.

“The KMPDU has taken note of the County Government of Mombasa’s position statement regarding the suspension of our member, Dr Iqbal Khandwalla. While the County describes the suspension as a standard procedural step and assures the public of an impartial process, the circumstances surrounding this action raise serious concerns,” KMPDU stated.

The sentiments from the KMPDU to respond to the Mombasa County Government followed a warning issued by the county to the health workers against what it described as unlawful industrial action. The warning followed a strike notice by doctors protesting the suspension of Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital CEO, Dr Iqbal Khandwala.

Through the Office of the County Executive Committee Member for Health, Dan Manyala, the county cautioned that any staff who disrupt essential medical services would face disciplinary action, emphasising that interruptions in healthcare delivery put patients’ lives at risk.

“The county government cautions any staff contemplating unlawful industrial action. Disruption of essential health services endangers lives and will attract disciplinary action,” Dan Manyala stated.

The County Government described the suspension as a routine procedural step and assured the public of an impartial review. KMPDU disputes the transparency and legality of the action.

The union argues that there has been no clear evidence of a properly deliberated and authorised resolution by the County Public Service Board. According to the statement, procedural assurances alone cannot replace strict adherence to statutory requirements.

KMPDU warns of political interferance

KMPDU further claims that doctors have been left vulnerable to political interference, citing an incident in which a political gathering reportedly took place within an emergency triage area. Such developments, the union says, have eroded confidence in workplace security and fairness.

Despite the escalating dispute, the union maintains that doctors remain committed to saving lives. However, it insists that medical professionals cannot operate effectively in an environment overshadowed by intimidation and presumed guilt.

The statement from the Practitioners calls for restoration of due process, administrative safeguards, and a safe working environment, underscoring the broader tension between healthcare workers and county authorities in the management of public health services.