Health 16 October 2026 Nile Post
Ministry of Health Clarifies: Arua Doctor Not Suspended After Confrontation with Minister
The Ministry of Health has refuted claims that Dr. Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, was suspended following a public disagreement with Minister Anifa Kawooya. Dr. Candia continues to perform his duties, with the Ministry emphasizing adherence to established disciplinary procedures. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/379160/moh-denies-suspending-arua-doctor-after-pocketing-row-with-minister-kawooya
Reports circulating online alleging the suspension of Dr. Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, have been officially denied by the Ministry of Health. A statement released on Friday, October 16, confirmed that Dr. Candia has not been suspended and remains actively engaged in his professional responsibilities.
The clarification follows a widely shared video that captured a heated exchange between Dr. Candia and the Minister of State for Health, Anifa Bangirana Kawooya. During a ministerial oversight visit, Minister Kawooya expressed strong disapproval of Dr. Candia keeping his hands in his pockets while addressing her, and was seen ordering his immediate suspension.
The incident sparked considerable public discussion regarding the appropriate handling of disciplinary matters within the public service. The Ministry of Health, in its statement signed by Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine, stressed that any disciplinary actions must strictly follow established government procedures and administrative processes, rather than bypassing them.
Dr. Atwine also used the opportunity to encourage all health professionals to maintain high standards of conduct and professionalism. She urged them to remain focused on delivering quality, uninterrupted healthcare services to the Ugandan population. The Ministry affirmed its commitment to collaborating with healthcare workers while upholding accountability and ensuring the quality of patient care.
The Ministry’s clarification also comes amid criticism from the Uganda Medical Association (UMA). The UMA had previously condemned the reported suspension, labeling it “governance by tantrum” and calling for its reversal. The association argued that disciplinary actions must comply with legal and administrative frameworks, and that political figures should not impose summary punishments for perceived breaches of etiquette.