The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) has criticised the reported suspension of a medical officer by State Minister for Health in charge of General Duties Anifa Bangirana Kawooya after the doctor was allegedly found with his hands in his pockets while speaking to her during a visit to a health facility.
The incident, reported on Thursday, October 15, has sparked debate over disciplinary measures against health workers and the conduct of government officials during inspections of public health facilities.
A report by The Pearl Times said a video circulating online showed Kawooya directing that the medical officer be suspended immediately or transferred to Yumbe over what she described as “pocketing”. The report identified the doctor as Dr Robert Candia.
The circumstances surrounding the reported suspension, including whether formal disciplinary documents had been issued, were not immediately clear.
The Uganda Medical Association condemned the move, describing it as “governance by tantrum” and calling for the decision to be reversed, according to reports circulating on social media.
The association also called for an end to what it described as political theatrics in health facilities, arguing that attention should remain on improving healthcare delivery and addressing the challenges faced by frontline workers.
The incident has drawn criticism from medical practitioners and other commentators, some of whom questioned whether the doctor’s posture warranted suspension, particularly in a health sector facing staffing constraints.
Other voices defended the minister’s approach as an effort to enforce discipline and respect for authority in public institutions.
Kawooya has previously called for action against health workers who absent themselves from duty or abandon public facilities to attend to private practice during official working hours. In September, she directed that health workers found absent from duty should face salary suspension and interdiction.
The Ministry of Health had not issued an official statement on the reported suspension by Thursday evening. It was also unclear whether Dr Candia had been formally notified of the decision or given an opportunity to respond.
The incident comes amid broader debate over how government officials should enforce accountability in public health facilities while ensuring that disciplinary procedures are fair and proportionate.
Further clarification is expected from the ministry and the Uganda Medical Association.
