State Minister for Health (General Duties) Anifa Bangirana Kawooya has sparked public debate after reportedly ordering the suspension or transfer of a medical officer who was found with his hands in his pockets while speaking to her.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026, during an inspection of a public health facility. A video showing the minister addressing the doctor later circulated on social media, attracting criticism from sections of the public.
Clinical professor and urologist Frank Asiimwe, who uses the X handle @RubabindaJr, questioned the reported decision, arguing that disciplinary action against health workers should not appear personal or create unnecessary tensions between officials and medical professionals.
Another medical practitioner, Doctor ALTON (@NewtonAllan6), expressed concern over the reported suspension, while Doctor Atwiine questioned how hospitals would continue operating if medical workers faced disciplinary action for similar conduct.
Journalist Gabriel Buule also criticised the minister’s reported approach, pointing to persistent understaffing in public health facilities and the pressure facing available medical personnel.
However, some social media users defended Kawooya, arguing that public servants should demonstrate discipline and respect when interacting with their supervisors and government officials.
The minister has previously called for disciplinary action against health workers accused of absenteeism, abandoning duty stations and attending to patients at private facilities during official working hours.
The incident has reignited debate over professional conduct, workplace discipline and whether keeping one’s hands in pockets during an official conversation warrants such serious consequences.
As of Thursday evening, the Ministry of Health had not issued an official statement on the matter. It also remained unclear whether the doctor had received formal suspension documents or been given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
