A senior enforcement official in Siaya County has been suspended after a violent incident in which striking nurses were attacked and injured by unidentified assailants outside Governor James Orengo’s office.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 30, when more than 20 nurses participating in a peaceful protest were allegedly beaten by unknown gangs, sparking national outrage.
County Orders 30-Day Leave for Enforcement Officers
In response to the public backlash, the Siaya County Government announced on Thursday, October 2, that the Head of the County Enforcement Unit, along with all officers who were on duty that day, had been placed on 30-day compulsory leave to allow independent investigations.
The directive was issued in a letter signed by Joseph Ogutu, the County Head of Public Service, who condemned the violence and called for swift investigations to identify and punish those responsible.
“The County is committed to ensuring the safety of all staff and fostering a peaceful working environment. Every professional, including our frontline health workers, has the right to air their grievances without fear,” Ogutu stated.
He also apologised to the injured nurses, wishing them a quick recovery, while urging health workers to use dialogue channels instead of prolonged strikes.
Unions Threaten Nationwide Strike
However, the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) strongly rejected the county’s response, accusing the government of orchestrating the attack to silence protesters.
“Using goons to break a lawful strike is unconstitutional. Some nurses were taken to hospital after being beaten by people allegedly hired by county officials,” the union declared.
The union warned that if justice is not served promptly, they would mobilise nurses across the country for a nationwide shutdown.
Calls for Accountability Intensify
Ogutu insisted that Governor Orengo’s administration has always been open to dialogue, noting that past disputes were resolved through mutual agreement.
“Records show successful engagements with our nurses and other staff in good faith. Violence should never replace negotiation,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, security agencies have been urged to fast-track investigations, as pressure mounts on the county government to restore trust and guarantee safety for health workers.
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