Doctors in the country have condemned the recent attack on Kitengela Sub-County Hospital during the Saba Saba protest on Monday.
This is after goons stormed the hospital, interrupted a C-section procedure before lighting a fire outside the facility.
Issuing the statement was the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) who not only condemned the goons attack but also allegation of police officers joining in the attack.
“Of particular concern is the terrifying disruption of the hospital’s operating theatre while a mother was undergoing a caesarean section—a moment that should be safeguarded by the highest standard of medical protection and dignity.
The lives of both mother and child were put in imminent danger, and the hospital staff were traumatised and impeded from performing their duties. This action constitutes a grave breach of medical ethics, patient rights, and human decency,” read the statement.
They continued by calling out the government and police to respect the doctors and termed hospital as protected areas.
“We call upon both the Government of Kenya and the National Police Service to unequivocally respect the sanctity of medical institutions and to ensure that hospitals remain protected zones, even during times of civil unrest. Healthcare providers are not political actors; they are guardians of life.” they said
According to the doctors, the numerous road blocked erected by the police denied expectant mothers from accessing hospitals, something that is unacceptable.
“Roadblocks, arbitrary curfews, tear gas, and violent crackdowns have restricted movement, making it nearly impossible for many women in labour and critically ill children to access timely healthcare.
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These restrictions infringe upon Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every person the right to the highest attainable standard of health, including reproductive healthcare.
We urge restraint, dialogue, and the immediate restoration of safe access to healthcare services for all citizens, regardless of the prevailing political situation. Let this be a turning point for the respect of health workers and for the preservation of medical care, “ they said
