Staff at Consolata Hospital Kyeni in Runyejes, Embu County say they are going through a difficult period marked by tension, uncertainty, and declining morale following an ongoing dispute with hospital management.
The workers are now appealing for public attention and intervention, saying the standoff has begun to affect daily operations at the faith-based facility and has created fear among staff members.
According to employees, the dispute is centred on the leadership of the hospital’s Managing Director, Father Josphat Waweru. They accuse him of running the hospital in a heavy handed manner that has led to strained working relations.
Staff claim that several workers have been dismissed unfairly and without following proper procedures, while others have been threatened or intimidated for raising concerns. They also allege that favoritism has influenced employment decisions, leaving many workers feeling unprotected and undervalued.
Beyond leadership style, staff say their welfare has steadily declined. They report cases of harassment at the workplace and say basic logistical support needed to do their jobs has been poorly managed.
Some workers claim that the general working environment has become hostile, making it difficult for staff to perform their duties effectively or feel secure in their positions.
This, they say, has taken a toll on their mental and emotional well-being.There are also concerns about financial management at the hospital. Workers allege that statutory deductions are not being remitted as required, raising fears about their future benefits.
They further claim that staff medical cover has either been withdrawn or is no longer reliable, despite the hospital being a healthcare institution.
Questions have also been raised about certain financial decisions made by management, which staff say have not been clearly explained or accounted for.
Tensions rose further when staff attempted to organise a peaceful demonstration to air their grievances. According to workers, the planned protest was disrupted after members of the local community were mobilised to block it.
They also say police were involved to prevent the demonstration from taking place. This incident, staff claim, deepened fear and frustration, as it gave the impression that management was using external pressure to silence dissent.
Employees say the involvement of local actors and law enforcement made them feel intimidated and powerless.
Some staff members now fear victimisation or dismissal if they continue to speak out. They also claim there is a growing belief within the hospital that management is untouchable, making it difficult to resolve the issues internally.
The workers are now calling for urgent intervention from relevant authorities, labour offices, church leadership, and other oversight bodies.
They want an independent review of the hospital’s management practices, staff dismissals, welfare policies, and financial handling. Staff insist their goal is not to harm the hospital’s reputation but to restore fairness, accountability, and a healthy working environment.
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