Striking Kenyan Doctors Shun Government’s Ultimatum

Striking Kenyan doctors have rejected another government ultimatum to end a month-long strike for better pay and improved working conditions. The doctors also got a boost from opposition leader Raila Odinga who appealed to the government to re-instate the Ksh206,000 (about $1,590) for intern doctors until the next negotiations. President William Ruto has appealed to the doctors to reconsider their demand for pay raises because the government cannot spend money that it does not have. The latest government ultimatum came from the head of Public Service, Felix Koskei. He urged the doctors to return to the negotiating table in compliance with a court order or face disciplinary action. Dr Simon Kigondu, President of the Kenya Medical Association, tells VOA’s James Butty, doctors are concerned that even if they call off their strike, the government may still not come to the negotiating table.