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Mulago National Referral Hospital has defended its role in the care and treatment of the late John Baptist Kakooza, husband to Constitutional Court Judge Irene Mulyagonja, following sharp public criticism and a viral video alleging medical negligence.
The hospital Executive Director, Dr Byanyima K. Rosemary, rejected claims of fault in Kakooza’s death, instead reaffirming the quality of care he received.
According to the hospital, Kakooza was admitted to Ward 6B, Mulago’s private wing, on April 9, 2025, after being referred from Nsambya Hospital.
He was treated for several illnesses until his discharge on May 6, 2025, and later passed away on May 17 at Mukwaya General Hospital.
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His widow, Justice Mulyagonja, had criticised the hospital for failing to provide basic medical supplies and timely tests, calling the care “frustrating and humiliating”.
Claims on NG Tubes and Insulin Disputed
One of the major concerns raised by Justice Mulyagonja was the unavailability of a nasogastric tube (NGT) and insulin when her husband needed them most.
However, Mulago Hospital disputed this, clarifying that the initial rejection of the NGT came from Kakooza’s attendant, who only accepted the intervention six days after medical advice.
They also emphasised that insulin was readily available and was administered by the nurse on duty, accompanied by the patient’s son.
She further explained that several laboratory tests were conducted during Kakooza’s stay and that they were completed on time to guide treatment decisions—refuting Mulyagonja’s claim that a simple blood count test took 24 hours.
Patient’s Condition Showed Improvement Before Discharge
Mulago detailed Kakooza’s gradual progress under their care. After initial resistance to treatment, he began responding well to feeding through the NGT and resumed medication.
The hospital said his condition stabilised, vital signs returned to normal, and he was able to communicate and sit in bed before his discharge.
"He looked brighter, exchanged pleasantries with staff, and even expressed gratitude for the service," the hospital stated. He was reportedly discharged in a wheelchair with an NGT in place and scheduled for a follow-up review.
Assurance of Quality Care Amidst Calls for Reform
In response to the backlash, Dr Byanyima assured the public of Mulago’s commitment to high standards in patient care.
“We are committed to delivering specialised healthcare services underpinned by medical technology and a patient-centred approach,” she said.
The hospital maintained that all established protocols and guidelines were followed in managing Kakooza’s case.