Healthcare workers have condemned the rising cases of police brutality against medics during recent nationwide protests, urging authorities to initiate dialogue to address the growing crisis.

Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi on Friday, the Health Sector Caucus warned that hospitals are being overwhelmed by injuries sustained during the demonstrations, leaving healthcare workers traumatised and stretched beyond capacity.

Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists Dentists Union (KMPDU) Secretary General Davji Atella said the union had recorded at least 200 incidents of violence, including seven injuries sustained by health workers.

"From the records, the hospitals are already indicating being overwhelmed after every protests," said Atella, highlighting the urgent need for police to exercise restraint during demonstrations.

He noted that several medics were tear-gassed while offering emergency care in temporary medical camps, others were assaulted while managing ambulances, and some had their vehicles vandalised or personal devices stolen while commuting.

"We need to find ways to communicate our issues effectively, the police should also exercise restraint," he added.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reports that 19 people were killed during last week's protests, which also marked the anniversary of the Gen Z-led demonstrations on June 25. The report further documents 531 injuries and 15 cases of forced disappearances.

Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) Secretary General George Gibore warned that continued attacks on medical personnel could lead to a strike.

He called on government leaders to ease tensions and prevent more bloodshed, especially as the country is yet to recover from the trauma of last year's unrest.