On October 19, 2025, the city of Metchef became the stage for a significant demonstration led by the Veterinary Union, as veterinarians and clinic owners rallied together to demand stronger protection for private veterinary clinics. The demonstration, organized in coordination with the Ministry of Communications, highlighted a growing concern over recent attacks and threats—both physical and electronic—targeting private veterinary practices. According to local media reports, the event drew a substantial crowd of professionals, all united by a shared sense of urgency and a desire to ensure the safety and continuity of their essential services.
The demonstration was not a spontaneous outburst, but rather a carefully planned action. The Veterinary Union’s program included a march to government headquarters, a demonstration in front of the Ministry of Communications, and a sit-in in front of the Ministry of Health, located in the new Qawaneen district. 'Krom', a platform specializing in veterinary news without commercial interests, provided extensive coverage of the event, underscoring its importance to the veterinary community and the wider public.
The union’s concerns were not unfounded. Over recent months, private veterinary clinics had faced a series of violations and threats. These ranged from vandalism and physical attacks to menacing messages sent electronically or delivered verbally. The Veterinary Union responded with a firm statement, issued on October 19, 2025, announcing that it would pursue legal measures against those responsible for these attacks. The message was clear: any individual or group found threatening or harming private clinics would face legal consequences.
In their official statement, the union declared, "We will take all necessary legal measures against those who attack private clinics or threaten them electronically or verbally." The union’s leadership emphasized that these protective efforts were not just about defending property or livelihoods, but about safeguarding the vital services that clinics provide to communities. As one union representative noted, "Protecting the clinics is essential to ensure their continued service to the community."
But the demonstration also had a broader context. It was part of a series of technical and organizational measures designed to bolster the protection of private clinics. The Veterinary Union’s campaign extended beyond public demonstrations, encompassing legal advocacy, public awareness initiatives, and ongoing dialogue with government authorities. The coordination with the Ministry of Communications was particularly significant, reflecting a shared recognition of the need for institutional support and effective communication strategies.
According to Krom’s coverage, the demonstration was attended by a large number of veterinarians and clinic owners, many of whom shared personal stories of the challenges they had faced. Some recounted incidents where their clinics were targeted by vandals, while others described the anxiety caused by anonymous threats received online. The sense of solidarity among participants was palpable, as they marched together, held signs, and voiced their demands for justice and protection.
The Veterinary Union’s campaign also resonated with the wider public, many of whom rely on private clinics for the care of their pets and livestock. Local media reports highlighted the essential role these clinics play in maintaining animal health, supporting agriculture, and contributing to public health more broadly. The attacks on clinics, therefore, were seen not just as assaults on individual businesses, but as threats to community well-being.
In addition to the demonstration, the Veterinary Union announced a series of upcoming initiatives aimed at further strengthening protections for clinics. These included technical workshops on security measures, educational campaigns to raise public awareness about the importance of veterinary services, and consultations with legal experts to ensure that clinics have access to effective legal remedies when threatened or attacked.
The Ministry of Communications, for its part, expressed support for the union’s efforts and pledged to work closely with veterinary professionals to address their concerns. Officials acknowledged the challenges faced by private clinics and emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all healthcare providers.
The demonstration in Metchef was widely reported by local media, which noted the professionalism and discipline displayed by participants. There were no reports of violence or disruptions during the event, and organizers praised the cooperation of law enforcement and government officials in ensuring a peaceful and orderly demonstration.
The Veterinary Union’s actions come at a time when issues of privacy, security, and professional autonomy are increasingly in the spotlight across various sectors. While the focus in Metchef was on veterinary clinics, the underlying themes—protection from threats, the right to operate free from intimidation, and the importance of legal safeguards—echo concerns raised by professionals in other fields as well.
As the Veterinary Union continues its campaign, many observers see the events of October 19 as a turning point. The large turnout, the clear articulation of demands, and the commitment to legal and organizational measures all signal a new level of resolve within the veterinary community. For many, the demonstration was not just a response to recent incidents, but a proactive step toward building a more secure and resilient sector.
Looking ahead, the Veterinary Union has indicated that it will maintain its vigilance and continue to advocate for the rights and safety of private clinics. The union’s leadership has called on all stakeholders—including government agencies, law enforcement, and the general public—to join in supporting these efforts. As one union leader put it, "Our clinics are not just businesses; they are pillars of community health. Protecting them is in everyone’s interest."
For the veterinarians and clinic owners who gathered in Metchef, the message was simple but powerful: they will not be intimidated, and they will not stand alone. Their collective action has set the stage for ongoing dialogue and, they hope, meaningful change. The coming months will reveal whether their efforts lead to the stronger protections they seek, but for now, their voices have been heard—and their cause has gained new momentum.
