Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has dismissed reports claiming 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 the journalist to apologize for allegedly giving inaccurate information to President Museveni and the country.
The controversy began during President Museveni’s nomination at the Electoral Commission headquarters in Lweza, Makindye Ssabagabo, when Mwesigye highlighted challenges at Mukono Referral Hospital, Namuganga Health Centre III, and Kayunga General Hospital. He cited shortages of medical equipment and staff, poor patient care, and claimed that mothers were giving birth on the floor, while Kayunga Hospital’s oxygen plant was not functioning.
Following these claims, President Museveni directed Prime Minister Nabbanja to inspect the hospitals. After her visit, she confirmed the problems at Mukono Referral Hospital but said Mwesigye’s claims about Kayunga Hospital were inaccurate.
“I agree with journalist Mwesigye on 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 make a statement with police regarding his false claims. Journalists are essential in informing and educating the public, but sometimes they are misused by politicians to spread misinformation.”
