Medics Protest at Eldoret Police Station Over Colleague’s Killing

Medical staff from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital protested at Eldoret Central Police Station on Tuesday, demanding accountability for the killing of their colleague, Richard Rotich, in Uasin Gishu County.

The medics confronted police officers at the station, accusing security agencies of failing to protect health workers despite repeated reports of growing insecurity in the area. The protest, marked by chants and tense exchanges, briefly disrupted operations as officers engaged with the demonstrators.

Hospital representatives said violent crime in the region had increased sharply in recent weeks, exposing medical staff to serious risk. They told police that organised criminal activity and armed attacks had led to deaths, injuries, and fear among hospital employees, undermining their sense of safety.

The demonstrators criticised what they described as weak policing and poor response to distress calls. They questioned how armed criminals were able to operate freely while requests for protection went unanswered. One official cited an incident in which officers allegedly declined to escort staff who had reported an immediate threat at their residence.

Beyond justice for Rotich, the medics called for broader security measures, including increased patrols, improved intelligence operations, and a stronger police presence in residential areas where health workers live. They said such steps were necessary to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among staff.

Emotions ran high during the protest as colleagues spoke about the impact of Rotich’s death on his family. One medic described the distress faced by his widow and children and urged police to ensure suspects are not released without due process.

According to colleagues, Rotich had previously left his home area due to cattle rustling and insecurity, hoping to find safety in Eldoret.