“The Ministry of Health clarifies that Dr Robert Candia of Arua Regional Referral Hospital has not been suspended and continues to perform his duties,” Atwine said.
In a statement issued on October 16, 2026, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Diana Atwine, said Candia remained in office and continued to perform 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,” Atwine said.
She stressed that the Government had established procedures for handling disciplinary matters in the public service and that any such action must follow the applicable procedures.
Since Thursday, a video circulating on social media has shown Minister Kawooya confronting Dr. Candia and reportedly declaring him suspended on the spot for speaking to her while keeping his hands in his pockets.
The incident has sparked criticism from social media users, some of whom have called on the Government and the Ministry of Health to address what they describe as a growing tendency by political leaders to publicly humiliate medical practitioners.
Some users have also expressed concern that failure to address such incidents could undermine health workers’ morale and ultimately affect patients who depend on public health facilities.
Atwine urged health professionals to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and remain focused on providing quality and uninterrupted healthcare to Ugandans.
“The Ministry remains committed to constructive engagement with health workers while upholding accountability and ensuring quality patient care,” she said.
