In Burundi, doctors have been jailed after resigning over low pay, with at least five detained by intelligence services since late 2024. They demanded a fourfold salary increase from their meager earnings, leading to accusations of threatening national security. The healthcare system is already strained, and if conditions do not improve, more doctors may leave for better opportunities overseas.
In Burundi, several doctors have faced imprisonment after resigning from their positions due to insufficient salaries. At least five medical professionals were detained by the intelligence service since late 2024, with others reportedly facing threats. Despite calling for a fourfold salary increase and earning as little as $170 monthly, the government did not respond to their demands, prompting many to leave their roles in private clinics while still working in public hospitals.
Following their resignations, the authorities began detaining these doctors, accusing them of jeopardizing national security. A medical union has reported that these individuals were apprehended without proper warrants and are currently being held in cells controlled by the intelligence service. A security official noted that the departure of these doctors may have resulted in patient fatalities, although the government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.
Additionally, a senior official from the health ministry confirmed the arrests. Doctors have expressed concerns that if their situation remains unchanged, more healthcare professionals may resign. One doctor warned that it would not be surprising if medical personnel sought employment abroad for better compensation. Burundi has suffered from a chronic shortage of physicians for years, with over 130 doctors departing during the Covid-19 pandemic due to inadequate pay.
The situation in Burundi highlights a severe crisis in the healthcare sector, underscored by the persistent underpayment of medical professionals. This led to a mass resignation among healthcare workers, who sought better salaries and conditions. The government’s lack of responsiveness to their demands has resulted in ongoing tensions between the authorities and healthcare practitioners, exacerbating an existing shortage of doctors in the country.
The arrests of doctors in Burundi serve as a critical reminder of the challenges faced by healthcare workers regarding their salaries and treatment by the government. This incident not only reflects the dire economic situation for medical professionals but also raises questions about the government’s commitment to healthcare in the country. Without significant reforms, it is likely that the crisis will continue, leading to further resignations and the potential collapse of the healthcare system.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
