Negotiations between the government and striking doctors have collapsed, prolonging the suffering of Kenyans seeking healthcare in public hospitals.
The strike, organised by the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU), is entering its second month.
The union’s grievances include pay disputes and the failure to hire trainee doctors.
KMPDU officials did not turn up to a crucial meeting on Tuesday, called by Kenyan Head of Public Service Felix Koskei following days of negotiations.
After a cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto, the government said that the doctors’ grievances had been addressed, except for the disagreement on intern doctors’ salaries.
The government called the demand to pay intern doctors $1,500 (ÂŁ1200) “unsustainable”. It insisted that it can only pay a $520 monthly stipend to the interns.
The doctors’ union rejected the proposed return-to-work offer, saying the contentious issue of internship compensation was non-negotiable.
Mr Koskei accused the doctors of flouting court orders and backtracking on agreements reached during the meetings.
The striking doctors also want the Kenyan government to fully cater for their medical insurance cover, honour agreements on promotions, and improve their working conditions.