Iganga, Uganda: Iganga District’s Social Services Committee has launched an investigation into allegations of illegal charges at the District General Hospital following the circulation of a viral video that allegedly shows an intern doctor demanding money from expectant mothers seeking maternity services.
The committee has given hospital management until Thursday, June 18, 2026, to explain the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over unofficial charges in government health facilities.
The controversy erupted on Saturday, June 13, after a video circulated widely on social media platforms, attracting attention across Busoga and beyond. The footage allegedly shows an intern doctor coercing expectant mothers in labour to pay what was described as an “operation fee” rather than allowing them to undergo normal delivery.
District leaders say the allegations directly contradict government policy, which provides free maternal healthcare services in public health facilities.
In a letter dated June 15, 2026, and copied to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), the District Speaker, and the Central Registry, the committee described the allegations as serious and requiring urgent attention.
According to the letter signed by Social Services Committee Chairperson Hon. Mukisa, the video has generated widespread concern among residents and raised questions about accountability within the maternity department.
“This ugly scenario has caused the community to raise eyebrows,” the letter states. The committee noted that the matter has gone beyond routine public complaints and now threatens to undermine confidence in one of the district’s key referral health facilities.
Hon. Mukisa said residents are demanding answers over allegations that mothers continue to face hidden costs during childbirth despite repeated government assurances that maternal services are provided free of charge.
“The video has shaken public confidence and demands urgent intervention,” the committee noted, warning that failure to address the matter transparently could escalate tensions within the community.
The letter further revealed that some members of the public had expressed anger over the allegations, with reports emerging of threats directed at individuals believed to be involved.
“Some voices threatening violence against the accused individuals,” the letter states.
Committee members described the threats as a red flag, warning that public frustration could destabilise service delivery if authorities fail to establish the facts and communicate findings openly.
To aid investigations, the committee has directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to submit a comprehensive report detailing all activities conducted in the maternity ward during the week the video was recorded.
The report is expected to include admissions, procedures undertaken and any payments recorded during the period under review.
The committee has also summoned five senior hospital officials to appear before it on Thursday at 9:00am in the Education Boardroom.
Those summoned include the Medical Superintendent, Principal Nursing Officer, In-charge Maternity, In-charge Theatre and In-charge Antenatal Care.
District leaders say the three-day response window reflects the urgency attached to the matter and the need to restore public trust in the health facility.
For thousands of women in Iganga and neighbouring districts who rely on Nakavule General Hospital for maternal healthcare services, the allegations have struck a sensitive chord.
Health advocates have long warned that informal charges in public facilities can discourage expectant mothers from seeking skilled medical care, increasing the risk of home deliveries and maternal health complications.
Hon. Mukisa said the committee expects Thursday’s meeting to provide clarity on the allegations and recommend appropriate action if wrongdoing is established.
“If Thursday brings truth and action, the hospital can restore trust. If not, the matter may trigger deeper audits and disciplinary action by both the district authorities and the Ministry of Health,” he warned.
However, DailyExpress has learnt from a source at the hospital that top management of the facility were yet to convene a meeting where they expect to summon the officer in question before reaching a conclusion.
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