The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has raised an alarm over the arrest and detention of a senior obstetrician and gynaecologist, Job Obwaka.
In a press statement dated March 14, 2026, KMPDU stated that Obwaka was arrested earlier in the day under what the union described as unclear and disturbing circumstances.
According to the union, Obwaka was arrested at the NSSF Building in Nairobi, where his clinic is located, before being transferred to Muthaiga Police Station, where he is currently being held.
KMPDU Demands Response
The medical practitioner’s union said the arrest has shocked the medical fraternity due to Obwaka’s long service, age, and standing in the profession, calling for clarity on the circumstances surrounding the case and respect for his constitutional rights.
“Dr. Obwaka is a highly respected practitioner who has devoted his professional life to the service of mothers, families, and the broader Kenyan community. His arrest has therefore caused great shock, concern, and disbelief among doctors across the country, members of the Kenya Hospital Association, staff of The Nairobi Hospital, and the wider medical fraternity,” read part of the statement by the union.
The union stated that the case concerns allegations of falsification of the register of members of the Obwaka savings and credit cooperative.
However, the union stated that Dr Obwaka was not present at the time the alleged irregularities are said to have occurred.
According to KMPDU, this raises serious questions about the basis and fairness of the accusations being levelled against him, adding that the circumstances surrounding his detention have deepened concern after authorities reportedly declined to grant him cash bail, despite the offence allegedly being bailable under Kenyan law.
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The union said the refusal to grant bail was reportedly based on unspecified “instructions from above”, a move it described as troubling and a possible misuse of state power.
KMPDU said such actions raise legitimate concerns about due process, fairness, and the treatment of senior professionals within the justice system.
KMPDU’s Demands
In the statement, the union outlined several demands and positions in response to Obwaka’s arrest.
First, KMPDU said it stands firmly with Obwaka and demanded that he be treated with dignity, fairness, and full respect for his constitutional rights.
Second, the union called on the relevant authorities to immediately clarify the circumstances surrounding his arrest and continued detention.
Third, KMPDU demanded that the legal process be followed strictly, including the granting of bail as provided for under Kenyan law.
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Fourth, the union urged investigative agencies to act with restraint and professionalism, warning against intimidation, harassment, or undue influence in the pursuit of justice.
“Any investigation involving Dr. Obwaka must be conducted transparently, lawfully, and with the utmost respect for his rights and reputation,” the statement read.
The union described Obwaka as a senior citizen, a decorated medical professional, and a respected member of Kenya’s medical community.
KMPDU said it would closely monitor the matter and would not hesitate to take all lawful measures necessary to protect the rights and dignity of its members.
The union also called on the medical fraternity and the public to remain calm but vigilant as it continues to seek clarity and justice in the matter, adding that an injury to one doctor is an injury to all.
The case comes amid growing concern within professional bodies over the treatment of senior professionals during investigations, particularly in cases involving bailable offences and prolonged detention.
