KMPDU has suspended the planned industrial action in Meru County following the successful conclusion of negotiations with the County Government. The agreement, signed ahead of the expiry of the strike notice on 6 March 2026, delivers significant commitments on promotions, employment terms, and professional development for doctors.
The resolution reflects the power of constructive dialogue backed by collective action. It also reinforces KMPDU’s commitment to pursuing lasting solutions while safeguarding the welfare and professional interests of its members.
A major outcome of the agreement is the commitment to immediately implement pending promotions. The County Government has agreed to process all common cadre promotions without delay, with the changes reflected in the March payroll. Consultants awaiting redesignation will undergo suitability interviews within the month, with their promotions taking effect in the April payslips. In addition, 14 consultants in Job Group Q will be redesignated to Job Group R by 18 March 2026, with the corresponding salary adjustments reflected in the March payroll.
The agreement also addresses long-standing concerns surrounding contractual employment. The County has committed to harmonizing all suboptimal contract terms in line with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, with the revised terms taking effect in the March salary. Eight doctors currently serving on contract and shortlisted for external interviews will be converted to Permanent and Pensionable terms by 18 May 2026, while the remaining 17 contract doctors will transition to permanent employment during the 2026/2027 financial year.
Professional development also featured prominently in the negotiations. The County has agreed to release four doctors for postgraduate studies on a first-come, first-served basis once the ongoing recruitment process is completed. Additionally, the two doctors already enrolled in training will receive their study leave release letters immediately, allowing them to continue their academic programmes without further delay.
These commitments represent meaningful progress toward improving career progression, employment security, and opportunities for professional growth in Meru County. More importantly, they demonstrate what can be achieved when doctors remain united in defending their rights through lawful and structured engagement.
While the suspension of the strike allows healthcare services to continue uninterrupted, KMPDU emphasizes that this marks the beginning of the implementation phase. The Union will closely monitor every commitment and ensure that the agreed timelines are fully honoured.
KMPDU extends its appreciation to all members in Meru for their discipline, solidarity, and unwavering trust in the Union throughout this process. Their collective resolve made these gains possible and continues to strengthen the Union’s ability to advocate effectively on behalf of doctors across the country.
As doctors return to serving the people of Meru, KMPDU remains vigilant and committed to ensuring that every promise made is translated into tangible results.
The lesson remains clear: when doctors stand together, progress follows. Together we fight, and together we win.
