By Robai Ludenyi
Tension is rising in the health sector after the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) demanded the immediate dissolution of the board of the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) over alleged bribery and gross misconduct.
In a strongly worded letter dated February 17, 2026, the union raised alarm over an audio recording in which a Council member is allegedly heard offering a Ksh.1 million bribe to a doctor involved in a medico legal dispute. KMPDU claims the recording is nearly two years old, a detail that has intensified concerns about accountability and possible inaction.
The Council plays a powerful role in Kenya’s healthcare system. It is mandated to license medical practitioners, accredit training institutions, enforce discipline and safeguard professional standards. KMPDU argues that any hint of corruption within such an institution threatens not only doctors but also patients who depend on a fair and transparent regulatory system.
According to the union, the allegations raise serious questions about how disciplinary cases are handled. KMPDU claims that some doctors who have shown willingness to take responsibility for professional mistakes have allegedly faced threats of harsh or disproportionate penalties. If proven, such practices would undermine confidence in the Council’s ability to act fairly and independently.
The union has now given a 14-day ultimatum for the current board to be removed. It is also calling for independent, transparent investigations into all individuals linked to the alleged misconduct. To prevent disruption of regulatory functions, KMPDU has proposed the establishment of an interim governance framework to oversee operations while investigations proceed.
In a further escalation, the union warned that it will withhold the remittance of regulatory fees until the Council is restructured. KMPDU insists that doctors should not be compelled to finance an institution whose integrity is under question.
The letter is signed by Secretary General Dr Davji Atellah, National Chairperson Dr Abidan Mwachi and officials Dr Kahura Mundia and Dr Miskellah Dennis. The union has urged the Health Cabinet Secretary to intervene promptly, stating that the matter touches on constitutional principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity in public office.
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