Ombudsman demands report from KMPDC over dental practice complaints

The Office of the Ombudsman has instructed the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to hand over documents on the regulation of dentistry within seven days.

The order issued on Friday is part of a case filed by a concerned dental practitioner.

The directive was made in relation to an appeal by Dr. Kahura Mundia, who is seeking a review of how dental regulations are being handled in the country.

The Commission said the documents will help them decide on the matter.

The Commission’s letter makes it clear that the KMPDC CEO is expected to submit either an institutional report or relevant documentation.

This is in line with provisions under Section 22(3) of the Access to Information Act, 2016, and Regulation 25(1) of the ATI General Regulations, 2023.

Dr. Mundia submitted his appeal under Section 14(1)(a) of the same Act. In his letter to the Commission, he said he had written to the KMPDC on March 6, 2025, asking for clarification about the Council’s handling of dental practice issues in Kenya.

He raised concerns about the published scopes of practice for dental professionals and Community Oral Health Officers (COHOs).

According to him, their "motive, intent, placement, and purposes" were not clearly explained.

He pointed out that his questions are connected to his rights under Article 43(1)(a) and Article 46 of the Constitution.

Among the information Dr. Mundia asked for are meeting minutes from February 27, 2025, when KMPDC met with stakeholders to discuss issues, including claims of improper licensing and the removal of scopes of practice.

He also requested documents such as training curricula from KMTC and Mount Kenya University, internship logbooks from both institutions, and those used for Bachelor of Dental Surgery programs.

He further asked for inspection reports from public and private universities offering dental education.

Dr. Mundia said the KMPDC failed to reply to his request, which prompted him to seek help from the Commission.

“The Commission has warned that if the CEO does not comply within the stipulated timeframe, it will proceed to determine the appeal without further input from the Council,” the directive warned.