The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has given the government 48 hours to explain reports surrounding a proposed Ebola quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia Air Base.
The union says the public deserves clear answers about ongoing discussions between Kenya and the United States over the plan.
In a statement issued by KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Atellah, the union accused the government of holding secret negotiations without involving healthcare workers or informing Kenyans about the details of the proposal.
The union warned that failure to provide full disclosure within the next two days could lead to industrial action across the country.
Dr. Atellah questioned why Kenya had been identified as a possible host for exposed U.S. citizens linked to Ebola cases yet the outbreak remains concentrated in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
He said the government must explain the reasons behind the arrangement and assure Kenyans that public health and safety will not be compromised.
The union also raised concern over reports suggesting that people considered too risky to be admitted into the United States could instead be brought into Kenya for treatment and quarantine.
According to KMPDU, such a move could place unnecessary pressure on the country’s health sector and expose Kenya to risks that have not been openly discussed.
Atellah further criticised the government for focusing on international arrangements while many public hospitals in Kenya continue to struggle with shortages of medicine, limited medical equipment, and staffing gaps.
He argued that healthcare workers have repeatedly called for improvements in local hospitals but little progress has been made.
KMPDU also objected to claims that the proposed facility could be operated mainly by American medical personnel.
The union insisted that qualified Kenyan healthcare workers who are currently unemployed should be given priority if such a project is to move forward.
The union maintained that transparency is necessary in matters touching on national health and security.
It warned that unless the government provides clear information within 48 hours, healthcare workers across the country could begin industrial action.
