The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, is facing backlash for his comments on the doctor’s strike.
Koome, in a press statement, stated that the striking medics have become a public nuisance during their demonstrations.
“The National Police Service has observed and received reports of the inconveniences caused by the strike, with medics lying on the streets obstructing highways, public roads, and disrupting the flow of vehicles and people.
The medics have become a public nuisance by whistling and playing vuvuzelas during the demonstrations, causing discomfort to patients in hospitals and the public,” read the statement in part.
He instructed all police commanders to deal with the situation soundly and decisively, per the law.
Further, the IG cautioned “all doctors to refrain from infringing on the rights of others while demonstrating and their efforts to disrupt smooth operations of the hospitals will not be tolerated”.
Responding to the directive, the doctors, through their lawyer, Ochiel Dudley, demanded that the IG retract his directive and apologise publicly before 6pm on Sunday, April 14
Why are doctors suing IG Koome?
After failing to comply, they notified him of their intention to take legal action by filing a court case challenging his instructions.
Ochiel, speaking to TUKO.co.ke, confirmed that they would initiate legal proceedings against Koome.
He stated that they plan to sue the IG for the suspension of Articles 37 and 41 of the Constitution, among other grievances.
“Based on the doctrine of command responsibility, we will seek orders holding you personally liable for harm caused by the police to the striking and picketing medics. We will also seek damages against you for the attack on Davji Atela, KMPDU boss on February 27,” said Ochiel.
