The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has protested the arrest of veteran doctor Job Obwaka, an 83-year-old obstetrician and gynaecologist and board member at The Nairobi Hospital.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the union said the arrest raises serious concerns about due process and possible misuse of state power.
According to KMPDU, Dr Obwaka was arrested earlier on Saturday at the parking area of the NSSF Building in Nairobi, where his clinic is located. He was later taken to Muthaiga Police Station, where he was being held.
“KMPDU wishes to inform the medical fraternity and the public of a deeply troubling development involving one of our distinguished colleagues, Dr Job Obwaka, an 83-year-old Obstetrician and Gynaecologist who has served patients with dedication and distinction for decades,” the union said in a statement.
The union said the doctor is accused of falsifying a register of members at the hospital. However, KMPDU argued that the responsibility for such records lies with the office of the company secretary and not board members.
“We are informed that Dr. Obwaka is being accused of falsifying the register of members, a function that falls squarely under the mandate and custodianship of the Office of the Company Secretary. It is important to note that Dr. Obwaka was not present at the time when the alleged irregularities in these records are said to have occurred,” the union said.
KMPDU also raised concerns that authorities had allegedly declined to grant the doctor cash bail even though the offence is bailable under Kenyan law.
The union claimed the decision was made following “orders from above,” saying the move raises questions about fairness and the possibility of political interference.
“This raises serious concerns regarding due process, fairness, and the possible misuse of state power against a senior member of the medical profession,” the union said.
The arrest comes days after former Attorney General Justin Muturi claimed that President William Ruto was attempting to take control of the Nairobi Hospital through intimidation and political pressure — allegations that have stirred debate in recent days.
KMPDU has now called on authorities to explain the circumstances surrounding Dr Obwaka’s arrest and detention. The union also urged investigative agencies to follow the law and ensure the doctor is granted bail as provided for in the constitution.
At the time of publication, police had not issued an official statement explaining the charges against the doctor or why bail had reportedly been denied.
