The Ministry of Health has denied suspending Dr Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, following a confrontation with the Minister of State for Health Anifa Bangirana Kawooya, over his conduct during a hospital visit.
Dr. Candia, was summarily suspended by Minister Kawooya for keeping his hands in his pockets (pocketing) while speaking to her in a video which has since gone viral on social media.
In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr.Diana Atwine said Dr.Candia is currently continuing with his duties at the hospital.
“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 ministry’s permanent secretary said government has established procedures for handling disciplinary matters “and any such action must follow the applicable public procedures.”
The statement follows a public uproar, especially towards Minister Kawooya for summarily suspending a doctor over the incident that the public has said was not serious.
The Uganda Medical Association in a statement described the incident as an overreach of political authority.
The medical association said healthcare settings are not stages for political posturing, taking a swipe at the minister for her actions.
