UPC President Akena Criticizes Government Over Medical Interns' Welfare

Uganda People's Congress (UPC) President Jimmy Akena has sharply criticized the government's approach to medical interns, asserting that the controversy highlights deeper issues concerning national priorities rather than being solely about allowances. Akena emphasized the critical role medical interns play in healthcare delivery, arguing they are an essential component of Uganda's health system.

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The welfare of medical interns directly affects the quality of healthcare provided to citizens.

Speaking at a press conference, Akena contended that the welfare of these interns directly impacts the quality of healthcare services available to citizens. He stressed that government policy must prioritize the dignity, motivation, and working conditions of all health workers to ensure effective service delivery across health facilities.

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Government policy should prioritize the dignity, motivation, and working conditions of health workers to ensure better service delivery in health facilities.

Akena drew a distinction between the UPC's platform and that of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). He stated that his party places a significant emphasis on the well-being of crucial public service personnel, including medical professionals, teachers, police officers, and prison staff. As an example of alternative policies, he referenced the UPC's affordable housing proposal from a past election campaign, designed to support public servants often relocated across the country.

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Such workers deserve decent housing and stable living conditions that enable them to effectively serve citizens while maintaining family stability.

He further argued that any claims of progress in sectors like health and education should be evaluated against the actual experiences of ordinary Ugandans, encompassing parents, educators, and farmers. Akena concluded that Uganda requires more robust systems to tackle the challenges confronting essential service providers and pledged that the UPC would continue to hold the government accountable for what he termed misplaced policy priorities.

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Government claims of progress in sectors such as health and education should be measured against the lived realities of ordinary Ugandans, including parents, teachers, and farmers.