The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has strongly condemned what it terms as “deliberate violations” of medical neutrality and access to healthcare during the ongoing nationwide protests, including the Gen Z-led demonstrations of 25 June and the Saba Saba-related shutdowns today.
In an urgent statement issued Monday, the association expressed “dismay” over incidents where healthcare workers were obstructed from accessing hospitals, and medical facilities were reportedly targeted by security forces.
“We strongly condemn the repeated obstruction of healthcare workers and the targeting of medical facilities during the ongoing protests,” said KMA Secretary General Dr. Diana Marion. “These actions breach both our Constitution and international humanitarian standards.”
According to KMA, several violations were observed in June and July. These include road barricades preventing the movement of health personnel, the firing of tear gas canisters at emergency field hospitals, and delays in providing medical care to injured citizens.
“This reckless act endangered the lives of both emergency medical providers and their patients,” Dr. Marion noted, referencing a specific incident during the 25 June protests where security forces allegedly targeted emergency sites.
KMA said the consequences of such actions were dire and preventable, stating that Kenyans in urgent need of care had been denied life-saving services. These actions, it said, violate Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees the right to the highest attainable standard of health.
Kenya, as a signatory to the Geneva Conventions, is bound by international humanitarian law to respect medical neutrality. KMA reminded state actors of their obligations under the Kenya Health Act (2017), the World Health Organization’s emergency response principles, and the World Medical Association’s ethical code.
KMA outlined four immediate demands:
- Unimpeded Access for Health Workers – The National Police Service must guarantee round-the-clock safe and unrestricted passage for all healthcare providers.
- Protection of Medical Facilities & Personnel – The use of force near health infrastructure must cease, and clearly marked medical vehicles and workers must be respected.
- Guaranteed Access for the Injured – All wounded persons, including protesters and security agents, must be allowed timely medical attention.
- Accountability for Violations – Authorities must investigate and take action against those obstructing health services or endangering medical staff.
“To the National Police Service and the Inspector General, we demand that you immediately issue public, explicit orders to all officers mandating strict respect for medical neutrality,” the statement urged.
KMA also appealed to the Ministries of Interior and Health to create and enforce operational protocols that prioritise healthcare delivery during civil unrest, and to ensure emergency services receive adequate logistical support.
Turning to protest organisers and demonstrators, the association made a plea for responsible conduct.
“We appeal to you to actively respect medical personnel, facilities, and ambulances. This includes strictly refraining from blocking their access routes or using them as shields,” Dr. Marion said.
She concluded with a stern reminder: “Healthcare is not a target. Medical neutrality is not optional. Access to care is a fundamental right. The repeated failure to uphold these principles during protests is causing preventable death and suffering. We demand action now.”
The KMA leadership reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lives of all Kenyans, regardless of the political climate, and called for the unconditional respect of healthcare services across the country.
