BOR – Civil Society Activist Bol Deng Bol is calling on relevant authorities to resolve a week-long doctors strike that has forced the closure of Bor State Hospital, a situation that reportedly led to the death of two patients and other health crises.
Deng, the Executive Director of Intrepid South Sudan, said the hospital has been severely affected by ongoing industrial strike by its doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff members who are demanding better working condition.
“As a result, two avoidable deaths of male and female patients have occurred, including about four expecting women who gave birth outside the hospital in unhealthy conditions,” he stated.
He added that many cases of health medical emergencies remain unreported and are managed without treatment in the residential areas.
Deng said there is yet no agreement between the hospital management and the striking civil servants on how the facility can be reopened to save lives.
“This is the only hospital with a capacity not found within the state. Its prolonged closure, therefore, only increases the suffering of the people.”
“We are appealing for an amicable settlement of the grievances that led to the closure of the hospital as soon as possible. Please note that strike, among any other form of civil disobedience, is constitutionally protected and it is normal in the state. So it ought to be responded to with respect to the citizens’ civil liberties, including freedom of expression and assembly.”
“We will continue to monitor this development, though with concerns and unreserved solidarity with the Patients and the general public.”
