Kaziimba Urges Government to Reconsider Suspension of Medical Interns' Allowances
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Archbishop of Uganda urged the government to reinstate allowances for medical interns.
- He questioned the government's priorities, citing funds for MPs' cars versus interns' pay.
- The Archbishop also called for support for health workers combating the Ebola outbreak.
Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has publicly challenged the government to reconsider its decision to suspend allowances for medical interns. During an ordination and installation service at All Saints' Cathedral in Kampala, Archbishop Kaziimba questioned the government's financial priorities. "You cannot say that you have Shs158 billion to purchase cars for Members of Parliament and then claim that you do not have Shs28 billion to pay medical interns' allowances, with the excuse that it would crush the economy," he stated. He highlighted the critical role of medical interns, noting, "doctors are rarely in the hospitals. It is the medical interns who are everywhere doing the donkey work." The Archbishop also appealed for national support for health workers engaged in responding to the Ebola outbreak, urging the public to strictly adhere to Ministry of Health Standard Operating Procedures to prevent the disease's spread. The service also saw the ordination of seven deacons, one priest, and the installation of two clergy canons and one lay canon. The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye, Dean of All Saints' Cathedral, preached on "Anchored in Christ for Faithful Stewardship," emphasizing the importance of faith and respect for clergy.
You cannot say that you have Shs158 billion to purchase cars for Members of Parliament and then claim that you do not have Shs28 billion to pay medical interns' allowances, with the excuse that it would crush the economy.
Originally published by AllAfrica Uganda. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.