The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has requested the immediate suspension of a physician connected to the death of a 22-year-old patient following surgery in Kitale.
The organization also seeks the revocation of the physician’s license, characterizing the surgical procedure as illegal and the patient’s demise as stemming from extreme negligence.
In an official statement, KMA reported that the young man passed away on May 28 due to a severe infection following what they described as ‘extreme surgical negligence,’ maintaining that the death could have been avoided and represented a fundamental breach of medical protocols.
‘The patient experienced a death that could have been prevented. He was entitled to secure, legal, and proficient medical treatment,’ the organization stated.
KMA observed that video footage circulating widely and verified through official announcements from the Trans Nzoia County Government demonstrated that a significant surgical operation was carried out ‘without the presence of essential surgical facilities and infection prevention measures.’
According to the organization, the patient was subjected to ‘clear and predictable danger,’ an action that they said breached the doctor’s commitment and obligation to avoid causing harm.
‘The behavior described in this instance constitutes extreme medical negligence under Kenyan legislation,’ KMA declared. ‘Negligence of this extent and severity must be addressed with the full authority of the law; professional, civil, and criminal.’
The medical professionals’ association has requested the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to promptly initiate a formal investigation and examine the practitioner’s licensing status until the inquiry is completed.
‘The Council must assess the complete licensing status of the individual in question and apply all available disciplinary measures,’ KMA stated.
The organization also appealed to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to consider criminal charges, asserting that conducting surgery in circumstances that create an immediate and predictable threat to life should not be handled solely through professional penalties.
‘KMA additionally requests the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to urgently determine whether the circumstances surrounding the patient’s death meet the criteria for criminal action,’ the announcement said.
The organization acknowledged reports suggesting the practitioner may have had an extended history of substance dependency but stressed that such allegations should not impede current investigations.
‘KMA is clear, nevertheless, that the presence of a substance use disorder does not and cannot justify the endangerment of patients,’ they stated.
The organization added that if concerns arise about a practitioner’s capability to practice, immediate suspension from clinical responsibilities should occur until a formal evaluation is conducted.
KMA additionally demanded that KMPDC promptly suspend the physician’s license and seek permanent revocation if evidence supports such action.
It also urged the DPP to initiate a criminal investigation without delay and called on the government, KMPDC and professional associations to enhance peer-reporting systems to enable medical professionals to report concerns about colleagues whose behavior might endanger patients.
The organization reminded Kenyans of their right to confirm whether their doctors and healthcare facilities are appropriately licensed and registered through KMPDC verification systems before any surgical intervention.
‘We are obligated to this patient, his family, and all individuals who place confidence in a member of our profession, to ensure justice is fully administered, and that the circumstances that allowed this tragedy to occur are not allowed to recur,’ KMA stated.