Another Medical Intern has committed suicide two months after the tragic death of Doctor Desree Moraa Obwogi, a medical intern at Gatundu County Referral Hospital.The Kenya Medical, Practitioners and Dentist Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Devji Atella has announced that Dr Francis Njeru, a medical intern (pharmacist) at Thika level 5 hospital committed suicide after working for only four months.
According to Atella, Dr. Francis was working for 36 hours without pay throughout this period.
“Another doctor intern has tragically taken his own life this morning, a heartbreaking outcome of relentless workplace frustrations under a government that seems indifferent.
Francis Njeru, a medic at Thika Level 5 hospital commits suicide
Four months of working over 36-hour shifts without pay can break even the strongest among us. Our hearts ache as the medical fraternity mourns for our younger brothers and sisters. We shall not take this anymore !!” Atella said.
Several Kenyans have taken to social media to comment on the sudden demise of the doctor. Dr. Andrew Suleh said, “So sad, so painful, so unbearable.”
Also Read: Kenya’s Laws Make It a Crime to Attempt Suicide – This Hurts Vulnerable People
Another user, Dr. Kareem, said, “Another sad day for the medical interns’ fraternity. I have no words. We’ve lost two interns to suicide in a span of two months. This tragedy is a result of the actions of the Ministry of Health officials, and it is imperative that they take responsibility.”
X user Dr. Austin Omondi said, “Two medical interns have died by suicide in the last two months alone. How many more need to go before an intervention and a lasting solution? So sad.”
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On September 22, 2024, Dr. Desree Moraa tragically took her own life. It is believed that her decision was significantly influenced by workplace frustrations.
Recent suicide case of a medical intern
The fraternity of medical interns reported that Dr. Moraa was struggling to meet her basic needs, working shifts longer than 36 hours without adequate rest or nutrition, and facing constant pressure from her supervisors.
Police in Gatundu South found a suicide note indicating that Dr. Moraa was distressed and experiencing difficulties in her work environment.
Also Read: KMPDU Issues Statement on Intern’s Death After Uproar Over Toxic Environment
This suggests that she may have been dealing with frustrating and depressing working conditions, although the exact circumstances remain unclear at the time.
Stella Cherono, the Sub-County Police Commander, stated that Dr. Moraa’s body was found hanging from the balcony of a house she shared with a friend who had been hosting her. The discovery was made on Sunday, November 23, with a rope around her neck.
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