The president of the Uganda People's Congress (UPC), Jimmy Akena, has criticized government's handling of medical interns, saying the issue goes beyond allowances and reflects deeper questions about national priorities.
Speaking at a press conference, Akena said medical interns play a critical role in the delivery of healthcare services and should be treated as an integral part of Uganda's health system.
He argued that the welfare of medical interns directly affects the quality of healthcare provided to citizens, noting that government policy should prioritize the dignity, motivation, and working conditions of health workers to ensure better service delivery in health facilities.
Akena contrasted UPC's approach with that of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), saying his party places greater emphasis on the welfare of key public service workers, including medical personnel, teachers, police officers, and prison officers.
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He cited UPC's affordable housing proposal, presented during a previous election campaign, as an example of policy alternatives aimed at supporting public servants who are frequently transferred across the country.
According to Akena, such workers deserve decent housing and stable living conditions that enable them to effectively serve citizens while maintaining family stability.
He further argued that 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.
Akena maintained that Uganda needs stronger systems to address the challenges facing essential service providers and pledged that UPC would continue holding government accountable over what he described as misplaced policy priorities.
