Turn of events! Health Ministry reinstates Arua Doctor after Minister Kawooya ordered his suspension over hand pocketing while talking to her

The Ministry of Health has clarified that Dr Robert Candia, a senior dental surgeon at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, has not been suspended and continues performing his duties despite a controversial directive by State Minister for Health Anifa Bangirana Kawooya.

In a statement issued on Friday, Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine confirmed that Candia remains on duty, effectively overturning the minister’s earlier order to suspend him over alleged insubordination.

The controversy arose during Kawooya’s inspection of the hospital, when she reportedly ordered Candia’s immediate suspension or transfer to Yumbe district after accusing him of disrespect for speaking to her while pocketing his hands.

A video of the confrontation circulated widely on social media, triggering public outrage and questions about whether a doctor’s posture while addressing a government official warranted disciplinary action.

Dr Atwine emphasised that disciplinary matters involving government employees must follow established public service procedures, adding that the ministry remains committed to accountability, constructive engagement with health workers and quality patient care.

The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) had earlier demanded Candia’s reinstatement, accusing the minister of overstepping her authority and arguing that pocketing one’s hands does not constitute a serious disciplinary offence.

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UMA President Dr Frank Rubabinda Asiimwe also cited constitutional protections requiring fair treatment by administrative authorities and called for disciplinary procedures to be respected.

Lawyer Joshua Byamazima also offered to represent Candia without charge if he was prevented from returning to work.

The ministry’s clarification has now brought relief to the doctor while intensifying debate over ministerial authority and the treatment of health workers.