She was elected to serve the people of Homa Bay as their Governor, but the latest decision by medics to down their tools has proven otherwise.
Gladys Wanga, the county chief, has faced criticism as thousands of residents are left without essential medical services while she is observed attending political rallies and climbing on car rooftops during campaigns.
Doctors in Homa Bay, under the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), began a countywide strike on Wednesday morning following the expiry of a 21-day strike notice issued to the county government.
The industrial action has paralyzed services in all public health facilities.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga speaks during a past event. Photo: Governor Gladys Wanga Source: Facebook
Speaking at Homa Bay County Referral Hospital, KMPDU Homa Bay Branch Chairperson Dr. Rodgers Otana accused the county government of failing to honor key agreements, particularly the settlement of salary arrears and union remittances.
“Of the seven agenda items that we raised in our strike notice, only one was conclusively addressed; the matter of promotions and redesignations,” said Dr. Otana.
“But the most important one is the arrears. The county government of Homa Bay owes doctors about Ksh.7 million. They also owe the union another Ksh.6 million, and until these dues are cleared, we are on strike.”
Gladys Wanga deserts Homa Bay residents
KMPDU Nyanza Regional Chairperson Dr. Onyango Steve said many health workers are struggling financially despite providing critical services.
“Healthcare workers in Homa Bay cannot afford healthcare themselves. This is a shame to the county and its leadership,” he said.
KMPDU National Deputy Secretary General Dr. Dennis Miskellah further condemned the county administration for unfair labor practices, including arbitrary payroll removals and questionable deductions.
“Homa Bay County is where disagreements with officials result in staff being struck off payroll without following HR procedures. Deductions for medical cover are taken, and the money disappears,” he added.
The strike now leaves thousands of residents dependent on public health services without access to care, piling pressure on the county government to resolve the standoff swiftly. Critics argue that Governor Wanga’s focus on political visibility, while healthcare in her county collapses, demonstrates a worrying disconnect from the urgent needs of her constituents.
