INTIMIDATION WON’T WORK: Doctors Fire Back at Museveni Government for Firing Striking Medical Interns

Ugandan health workers under their umbrella body, Uganda Medical Association (Uma) have blasted President Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni’s government over a decision to fire all striking medical interns.

On December 10, director general of health services Dr Henry Mwebesa announced government’s decision to fire all striking intern doctors.

But Uma has told government that intimidation won’t work, and warned that firing striking interns would solve healthcare provision challenges.

“Focusing on welfare of health workers is key. We have to make healthcare much better for everyone. Ministry of Health intimidations don’t solve any of these challenges. Very disappointing for Ministry of Health to come up with such an idea,” said Uma in a statement.

“Hospitals chasing Interns from hospitals without solving the issues is unprofessional, Ministry of Health won’t operate without interns. We must strengthen heath workforce of Uganda by addressing their welfare.”