The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has warned that doctors across the country could withdraw their services if authorities fail to release officials linked to The Nairobi Hospital who were recently taken into police custody under controversial circumstances.
Union Secretary-General Davji Atellah issued the warning after visiting the detained individuals at Muthaiga Police Station. He said the union would call for a nationwide strike beginning Monday if the officials remain in custody, insisting that their arrest was unjustified and worrying for the medical profession.
Central to the dispute is the arrest of veteran physician Job Obwaka, an 83-year-old obstetrician and gynaecologist who also sits on the hospital’s board. According to the union, Obwaka was apprehended on Saturday morning in the parking area of the NSSF Building in Nairobi, where he runs a private clinic, before being taken to Muthaiga Police Station.
He reportedly spent the night in custody and was visited on Sunday by union officials, legal representatives and family members. Despite pressure from the union demanding his release, he remained detained.
Reports also indicate that two other individuals connected to the hospital — director Valery Gaya and former director Chris Bichage – were being held at Pangani Police Station as of Monday morning.
The Law Society of Kenya says the arrest relates to a dispute over the hospital’s 2024 annual general meeting and alleged irregularities in its membership register. KMPDU, however, argues that the responsibility for maintaining such records lies with the company secretary’s office, not Obwaka.
The union also questioned the basis of the accusations, noting that Obwaka was allegedly not present when the suspected irregularities occurred.
The arrests come amid an ongoing power struggle over control of the hospital, with claims from some leaders that individuals linked to government circles are attempting to influence its leadership.
Political figures have since reacted strongly. Former Attorney General Justin Muturi previously accused William Ruto of attempting to take over the hospital, while Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of Wiper Democratic Movement, alleged that the arrests were carried out on direct orders from the president — claims that have further intensified the controversy.