The Ministry of Health has officially clarified that Dr Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, has not been suspended and continues to perform his duties.

The clarification came after a viral video showed State Minister for Health (General Duties) Anifa Bangirana Kawooya confronting the doctor during an inspection of the hospital on Wednesday, 14 October, and ordering his immediate suspension or transfer.

In the widely circulated clip, Minister Kawooya is heard saying: “How can he pocket… for you, suspension. I have said suspension. You are pocketing here?” She further instructed that the doctor be removed from her presence.

The minister’s on-the-spot directive sparked immediate outrage among medical professionals, lawyers and members of the public. Many questioned whether keeping one’s hands in one’s pockets while speaking to a superior could justify summary disciplinary action against a trained medical officer in a system already facing shortages of skilled personnel.

On Friday, Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine issued a public statement on behalf of the Ministry: “The Ministry of Health clarifies that Dr Robert Candia of Arua Regional Referral Hospital has not been suspended and continues to perform his duties. The Government of Uganda has established procedures for handling disciplinary matters, and any such action must follow the applicable public service procedures.”

The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) had earlier demanded the immediate reversal of what it described as an unlawful suspension. In a strongly worded statement signed by UMA president Dr Frank Rubabinda Asiimwe, the association condemned the minister’s conduct as “political theatrics” and an abuse of authority.

“While deference to authority is a cherished cultural value, neither the Laws of Uganda nor the clinical algorithms of healthcare delivery recognise hand placement as a capital disciplinary offence,” UMA stated. The association accused the minister of publicly humiliating a medical professional over a trivial matter and disregarding due process.

Critics, including commentators on social media, argued that the incident reflected a leadership style that prioritises personal ego over institutional needs. They pointed out that Uganda invests years and significant resources training doctors, only for such expertise to be threatened over perceived disrespect. Patients and taxpayers, they said, ultimately pay the price when professionals are removed from service without following proper procedures.

The Ministry’s clarification appears to have calmed the immediate tension, confirming that Dr Candia remains at his post. However, the episode has left lingering questions about the boundaries of ministerial authority during field visits and the need for clear, consistent disciplinary processes within the health sector.

As of Friday, Dr Candia continues to serve at Arua Regional Referral Hospital.