Medics for Kenya, a body set up by volunteer health workers to provide emergency services during the protests against the Finance Bill, has announced that it is withdrawing its services.
In a statement dated July 2 and signed by the body's co-founder, Dr. Austin Omondi, the body disclosed that the decision was reached after the protests turned violent.
“With the change in maandamano atmosphere and the deployment of goons, we as Medics For Kenya, highly value the lives of our volunteers. As we say in the corridors of hospitals, 'Your Safety Comes First'. Therefore, it is with much regret and pain that we announce MedicsForKenya will withdraw their medical camp services all across the country,” read part of the statement.
However, the body disclosed that its hotlines will remain open and it will co-ordinate with various emergency response services.
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"This decision has been well thought and discussed with various stakeholders, members of the committee and the volunteers. Our hotlines will however remain open and we shall be coordinating with various emergency response services, psychologists and referral hospitals," Medics for Kenya added.
The body was formed as a volunteer group of doctors, nurses, clinical officers, psychologists, nutritionists, paramedics, interns and students who set up medical camps in Nairobi and other towns.
In Nairobi, the medical camps had been set up at Jamia Mosque, Holy Family Basilica, All Saints Cathedral, among other stations.
Several protestors received emergency services in the camps free of charge.
However, some of the camps faced hostilities after
"This is not the last you'll hear from us. We will be involved in various acts of service to you the people of Kenya and championing for the rights of medics," Medics for Kenya remarked.
