By Weswa Ronnie
BUTALEJA
Adam Musiho has officially resumed his duties as Butaleja District Health Officer (DHO), following months away from office.
Musiho took back the office on Wednesday, 14th October, 2026 after receiving the instruments of power from Esther Musumbachai, the Assistant District Health Officer.
His return follows a six-month interdiction over allegations of abuse of office by the CAO and the State house Anti-Corruption Unit subsequently ordered for his interdiction.
Speaking shortly after assuming the role, Musiho said he would prioritise improved healthcare delivery by ensuring that health workers remain committed to their responsibilities and adhere to professional standards.
He warned that staff found absenting themselves from duty, demanding illegal payments from patients or selling government-supplied medicines would face disciplinary action.
“I am glad to be back in the DHO’s office. There are cases of extortion and indiscipline among nurses, with some abandoning their duties. I am going to put an end to that,” Musiho said.
He urged health workers to embrace teamwork, consultation and cooperation, noting that a coordinated approach was necessary to improve service delivery across Butaleja District.
Musiho also reflected on his absence from office, expressing regret over the months he had spent away from his office.
Musiho’s return follows a series of changes in the leadership of Butaleja District’s health department.
During his interdiction, Dr. David Okanya, the medical superintendent of Busolwe General Hospital, was appointed to take over the DHO’s responsibilities on acting position.
However, Okanya later relinquished the position to his deputy, Musumbachai, reportedly citing an overwhelming workload.
Musumbachai subsequently handled the responsibilities before handing over to Musiho on Wednesday.
Focus Shifts to Accountability and Service Delivery
Musiho’s reassignment comes at a time when improving staff discipline, strengthening supervision and ensuring the proper use of public resources remain key concerns in healthcare delivery.
His commitment to address alleged absenteeism, extortion and the sale of government medicines signals an intention to tighten oversight of health workers and improve patients’ experiences at public health facilities.
However, the effectiveness of the promised reforms will depend on their implementation and consistent enforcement across the district’s health facilities.
