Outrage as Doctors Condemn SRC’s Betrayal Over MPs’ Pay Hike Amid Health Budget Cuts
Betrayal has become the rallying cry of Kenya’s medical professionals after the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) approved a hefty pay raise for Members of Parliament while slashing the health budget. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has accused the government of abandoning its duty to protect public health, calling the move a blatant disregard for Kenyans’ welfare.
KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah condemned the decision, stating that it exposes the government’s misplaced priorities. “This is a betrayal of every Kenyan who depends on public healthcare,” Atellah declared. The union’s outrage comes as hospitals grapple with severe shortages, overworked staff, and delayed salaries—issues exacerbated by continuous budget reductions.
The approved salary increase for MPs, set to take effect in April 2025, will see lawmakers receive an additional Sh366,011 monthly as a fixed mileage allowance. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry struggles with a Sh68 billion funding gap, threatening essential services like HIV treatment, vaccinations, and blood transfusion programs.
Healthcare in Crisis as Budget Cuts Deepen
The betrayal of Kenya’s healthcare system is evident in the alarming budget cuts outlined in the 2025-26 Budget Policy Statement. The Ministry of Health revealed a staggering Sh68 billion deficit in its development budget, crippling critical medical programs. Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai warned that without adequate funding, lifesaving interventions would be severely compromised.
Key areas affected include HIV treatment, family planning, and vaccine distribution. The State Department for Medical Services disclosed that Sh30 billion is needed to fully implement a publicly funded primary healthcare system, with an additional Sh15 billion required for essential medical supplies. However, Treasury’s failure to allocate funds has left these programs in jeopardy.
Kimtai further highlighted that Sh3 billion for blood transfusion services remains unfunded due to dwindling donor support. “Repeated budget cuts have undermined key health programs, making it difficult to meet targets,” he told the National Assembly’s Health Committee. The financial strain has left hospitals understaffed, understocked, and overwhelmed—a dire situation ignored in favor of political gains.
Doctors and Nurses Overworked, Underpaid
The betrayal extends beyond budget cuts, with healthcare workers bearing the brunt of systemic neglect. Atellah emphasized that doctors and nurses face excessive workloads, delayed salaries, and poor working conditions. Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), meant to safeguard their rights, are routinely ignored while politicians enjoy unchecked benefits.
“Hospitals are running out of supplies, medical staff are overworked, and Kenyans are suffering,” Atellah stated. “Yet, instead of fixing this crisis, our leaders choose to enrich themselves.” The union demands full health sector funding and respect for CBAs, which ensure fair wages and dignified working conditions for medical professionals.
The contrast between MPs’ rising perks and healthcare’s decline has sparked public fury. Atellah questioned how quality care can be expected when the system is starved of resources. “Healthcare is not a privilege—it is a fundamental right,” he stressed. The government’s refusal to prioritize health over political gains has deepened mistrust among citizens and medical workers alike.
Public Backlash and Calls for Accountability
Kenyans have taken to social media to express their anger, with many labeling the pay hike a slap in the face to struggling citizens. The SRC’s decision has intensified scrutiny over Kenya’s wage bill, which remains one of the highest in the region. Critics argue that rewarding MPs amid economic hardship and healthcare collapse is indefensible.
Activists and civil society groups are demanding transparency in budget allocations, urging the government to redirect funds to critical sectors. “If leaders truly served the people, they would reject raises until hospitals are functional,” said one Twitter user. The growing outcry underscores the widening gap between political elites and ordinary citizens.
As pressure mounts, the KMPDU vows to continue fighting for healthcare reforms. “We demand accountability and justice for all Kenyans denied proper medical care due to greed,” Atellah asserted. The union’s defiance signals a looming confrontation if the government fails to address these grievances.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The SRC’s approval of MPs’ pay rise amid health budget cuts represents a profound betrayal of public trust. With hospitals in crisis and healthcare workers demoralized, Kenya faces a critical juncture. Will the government realign its priorities, or will political self-interest continue to endanger lives? The answer will determine the future of millions relying on an ailing healthcare system.
