Kassanda RDC denies blocking health camp organised by NUP MP

Kassanda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Phoebe Namulindwa has refuted accusations that she deliberately blocked a health camp organized by a local politician last year.

These accusations, widely circulated on social media, attracted the attention of opposition leader Joel Ssenyonyi, who criticized the RDC's conduct.

Responding to the accusations, Namulindwa emphasized the necessity for social and health event organizers to seek clearance and approval from district health authorities before planning such events, clarifying that RDCs are involved only in ensuring the security of the people.

"As someone responsible for monitoring government programs in Kassanda, there is no way I would block any program meant to benefit our people," Namulindwa said.

The RDC suggested that the accusations against her were politically motivated, aiming to tarnish her reputation.

She faulted the camp organizers for not adhering to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health for organizing health camps.

"These guidelines must be followed as they concern the health of the people. If those guidelines were followed by the relevant authorities, there is no way I would intervene and block it," she added.

The controversy began with a letter dated July 3, 2023, from Kassanda Woman Member of Parliament Flavia Nabagabe to the Chief Administrative Officer of Kassanda District.

The letter informed the officer about a planned health awareness camp at Kassanda Health Centre IV, which aimed at offering  services such as cervical and breast cancer screening, STI/STD management, and family planning.

However, the camp did not take place as scheduled.

On June 26, 2023, Kassanda District Health Officer Dr. Ssentamu Lawrence wrote to MP Nabagabe, expressing concern over her attempt to organize the camp without informing him.

"On the evening of Thursday, June 22, 2023, I learned about your plans to organize a health camp at Kassanda HCIV, which I was not officially informed about. This information is necessary for involving and mobilizing all relevant stakeholders in the district," Dr. Ssentamu stated.

On July 4, 2023, the district health team advised MP Nabagabe to adhere to the Ministry of Health's guidelines for medical camps.

They assured her of their support to ensure the safe and reliable provision of health services at the camp if proper procedures were followed.