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

In a public statement dated October 16, 2026, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Diana Atwine, said the government has established procedures for handling disciplinary matters, emphasising that any such action must follow the applicable public service procedures.

“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 statement reads.

The clarification follows public attention surrounding an incident involving Dr Candia and State Minister for Health (General Duties) Anifa Bangirana Kawooya during a visit to the hospital.

Dr Atwine urged health professionals to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while remaining focused on providing quality and uninterrupted healthcare services to Ugandans.

She added that the Ministry remains committed to constructive engagement with health workers while upholding accountability and ensuring quality patient care.

The Ministry’s statement underscores the need for disciplinary matters involving public servants to be handled through established procedures, while ensuring that healthcare delivery continues without interruption.