Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has dismissed reports suggesting she ordered the arrest of Galaxy TV journalist David Mwesigye, calling them false and misleading.
Her communications officer, Francis Jjingo, clarified that the Prime Minister never instructed police to detain Mwesigye. Instead, she asked him to apologize for allegedly providing inaccurate information to President Museveni and the nation.
The controversy began during President Museveni’s nomination at the Electoral Commission headquarters in Lweza, Makindye Ssabagabo, when Mwesigye raised concerns about Mukono Referral Hospital, Namuganga Health Centre III, and Kayunga General Hospital. He cited shortages of medical equipment and staff, poor patient care, and claimed mothers were giving birth on the floor, while Kayunga Hospital’s oxygen plant was non-functional.
Following the reports, President Museveni directed Prime Minister Nabbanja to inspect the hospitals. After her visit, she confirmed challenges at Mukono Referral Hospital but said Mwesigye’s claims about Kayunga Hospital were inaccurate.
“I agree with journalist Mwesigye about Mukono Referral Hospital, but he should apologize to the President for false information about Kayunga Hospital,” Nabbanja said.
She added, “I never ordered his arrest. I only asked him to record a statement with police regarding his false claims. Journalists are vital in informing and educating the public, but sometimes they are misused by politicians to spread misinformation.”
