Kampala, Uganda: An assistant nursing officer, John Bosco Otim, has been remanded to prison after being charged with illegally practising medicine, performing an unauthorised surgical procedure, and committing a negligent act likely to spread infection.
Charges were read to him at the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court before Chief Magistrate Ritah Neube Kidasa.
Otm denied all the allegations against him when he appeared in court. Due to the seriousness of the charges and the ongoing investigations, the magistrate ordered that he be remanded until March 2, when the matter will return to court for mention and further updates on inquiries.
According to the prosecution, Otim allegedly worked at Atutur General Hospital in Kumi District for several years without a valid practising license. State prosecutors claim that he had been carrying out medical duties since 2014 despite lacking authorisation from the relevant professional regulatory bodies.
The court heard that on April 30, 2025, Otim is accused of performing a surgical procedure on a patient in a room that was neither sterile nor officially designated for surgery.
Prosecutors argued that the conditions under which the procedure was allegedly conducted exposed the patient to a high risk of infection and compromised medical safety standards.
The charges include practising medicine without a license, conducting a medical procedure beyond his professional scope, and committing a negligent act likely to spread infection — offences that authorities say threaten public health and undermine professional medical regulations.
Prosecution told the court that the case was initiated following information obtained by the State House Health Monitoring Unit. The unit reportedly uncovered alleged irregularities related to Otim’s qualifications and scope of practice during routine oversight activities in the health sector.
Following preliminary findings, investigators compiled evidence that led to his arrest and subsequent arraignment before the court. Authorities indicated that inquiries are still ongoing and that additional witnesses and expert testimony may be presented as the case progresses.
Defence Position
While entering his plea, Otim denied all the charges. Details of his defense are expected to emerge as the trial process continues. His legal team is anticipated to challenge the prosecution’s claims regarding licensing, professional conduct, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged surgical procedure.
Broader Concerns
The case has raised fresh concerns about medical regulation and oversight in public health facilities, particularly in rural districts where staffing shortages and limited supervision may create opportunities for unlicensed practice.
Health sector observers say the outcome could have wider implications for accountability and enforcement of professional standards in Uganda’s healthcare system.
The matter will return to Buganda Road Court on March 2 as investigations continue and prosecutors prepare to present further evidence.
