Ministry clears Dr Candia as doctors condemn Minister Kawooya's 'pocketing' order
The Ugandan Ministry of Health has clarified that Dr. Robert Candia was not suspended, contradicting an on-the-spot order given by Minister Anifa Kawooya during a hospital visit. The Uganda Medical Association condemned the minister's actions as an overreach of political authority.
Why it matters
The incident underscores friction between political oversight and professional medical administration in Uganda's public health sector.
The Ministry of Health has clarified that Dr Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, has not been suspended following a viral incident involving Minister of State for Health (General Duties) Anifa Kawooya. In an official public statement, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine affirmed that Dr Candia remains in service and executing his duties.
"The Ministry of Health clarifies that Dr Robert Candia of Arua Regional Referral Hospital has not been suspended and continues to perform his duties," Dr Atwine said. "The Government of Uganda has established procedures for handling disciplinary matters, and any such action must follow the applicable public service procedures." Dr Atwine encouraged all health professionals to uphold the highest standards while providing quality, uninterrupted healthcare to Ugandans, adding that the ministry remains committed to constructive engagement with health workers while upholding accountability and ensuring quality patient care.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in