The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has called for the withdrawal of the proposed Medical Practitioners and Dentists (Amendment) Bill, 2026, citing concerns over its necessity, legal coherence, and potential impact on the healthcare sector.
The Union presented its position during a public participation forum convened by the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health in Kiambu County, where stakeholders gathered to review the proposed legislation and submit recommendations.
Commitment to Strong and Effective Regulation
KMPDU reaffirmed its support for robust regulation of healthcare professionals and the continuous strengthening of systems that protect patients and uphold professional standards.
The Union recognizes the importance of addressing issues such as fraudulent acquisition of practising licences, professional misconduct, and unethical practices that undermine public confidence in healthcare services. Protecting patients and maintaining high standards of care remain central objectives shared by healthcare professionals, regulators, and policymakers alike.
However, KMPDU emphasized that any legislative reforms must be grounded in evidence, aligned with existing legal frameworks, and capable of practical implementation within Kenya’s healthcare system.
Existing Laws Already Provide Adequate Protection
In its submissions, KMPDU argued that the concerns highlighted in the proposed Bill can already be addressed through existing laws, regulations, and professional oversight mechanisms.
The Union noted that Kenya currently has established regulatory institutions with the mandate to license practitioners, investigate complaints, enforce professional standards, and take disciplinary action where necessary.
Rather than creating additional layers of regulation, KMPDU urged policymakers to focus on strengthening the implementation and enforcement of existing frameworks, improving institutional capacity, and closing operational gaps that hinder effective regulation.
Protecting Patients Through Practical Solutions
KMPDU stressed that patient protection is best achieved through effective implementation of existing laws, investment in regulatory capacity, and strengthening healthcare systems rather than introducing provisions that may duplicate existing mandates or create legal uncertainty.
The Union further maintained that healthcare legislation should be carefully designed to enhance accountability while supporting the delivery of quality healthcare services across the country.
For reforms to succeed, they must be legally sound, operationally feasible, and responsive to the realities faced by both healthcare workers and patients.
Advocating for Better Health Policy
As Parliament continues to consider views from stakeholders, KMPDU remains committed to constructive engagement aimed at developing policies that strengthen Kenya’s healthcare system.
The Union will continue advocating for legislation that:
Enhances patient safety and public protection.
Upholds professional and ethical standards.
Supports efficient and accountable regulatory systems.
Protects the integrity of healthcare practice.
Strengthens service delivery across the health sector.
KMPDU believes that meaningful health sector reform should focus on improving implementation, supporting healthcare workers, and ensuring that regulatory frameworks serve the best interests of both patients and the public.
A Call for Reconsideration
While supporting the objectives of accountability and professional oversight, KMPDU maintains that the proposed Medical Practitioners and Dentists (Amendment) Bill, 2026, does not provide the most effective path toward achieving those goals.
The Union has therefore formally called for the withdrawal of the Bill and encourages broader stakeholder engagement to identify practical, evidence-based solutions that strengthen healthcare regulation without creating unnecessary legal and operational challenges.
As discussions continue, KMPDU remains committed to safeguarding professional standards, protecting patients, and contributing to the development of a stronger, more responsive healthcare system for all Kenyans.
In solidarity,
KMPDU
Doctors First. Patients Always.
