Govt to medics: Your strike is illegal

A consultative meeting between Cabinet multi-sectoral committee and representatives of Uganda Medical Union over the doctors’ strike is underway in Kampala.

Cabinet last week set up a committee to negotiate with the striking medical workers. This, as the medics’ strike enters a 10th day paralyzing public health services countrywide.

The meeting is attended by the Attorney General, William Byaruhanga, his deputy Mwesigwa Rukutana, health minister Dr. Jane Aceng, health ministry permanent secretary Dr. Diana Atwine and finance state minister David Bahati among others.

“Strike called by Uganda Medical Union is illegal. Our priority is for you to go back to work. Nominated representatives should work with Government to find a lasting solution. Nobody is denying your right to demand better pay or better working conditions. However, there is a methodology to do so,” Byaruhanga told medical workers.

He told the medics that the monetary disparity cuts across all sectors urging them to continue to engage with Government and will see results in the future.

The doctors want their salaries enhanced. They also want modern staff quarters and vehicles. One of the key demands is that the monthly salary of a senior consultant be increased from sh3.4m to sh35m and be given a five bed-roomed house.