A section of doctors have issued a set of demands to the government after the invasion of Kitengela Sub-County Hospital on July 7 during the Saba Saba demonstrations.
In a strongly-worded statement, the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), condemned the invasion, specifically referring to an incident which saw goons allegedly disrupt a caesarean section surgery procedure at the health facility.
The society described the infiltration of goons into a hospital as a gross violation of the sanctity of healthcare and a direct threat to patients' lives.
"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 statement read.
In their statement, KOGS called for a commitment from both the government and the National Police Service to protect hospitals and medical personnel at all times, including during unrest.
"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," the statement went on.
Kitengela was one of the hardest hit by skirmishes on Monday, as protesters engaged police in running battles, despite the Saba Saba protests initially starting out peacefully.
Protesters not only blocked roads and lit bonfires in Kitengela, but also descended into vandalism, reportedly breaking into several businesses.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has since confirmed 10 casualties and 29 injuries from the Saba Saba Day protests, with a considering number from these figures coming from Kitengela.
Roadblocks
KOGS further noted a worrying tendency during protests where police block roads.
The society faulted the government for the use of roadblocks and enforced curfews, which made it impossible for patients, including pregnant women, to get to the hospital in time.
The society's sentiments were echoed by the Kenya National Union of Medical Laboratory Officers (KNUMLO), who called on the government to come up with mechanisms to ensure the safety of frontline health workers across the country.
