A leading private hospital in Uganda has dismissed one of its senior surgeons after he declared plans to run in the 2026 presidential election.
Dr Deo Lukyamuzi Kizito, a long-serving surgeon at Case Medical Services in Kampala, was informed of his termination in a letter signed by the hospital’s Chief Operating Officer, Ronald Akankwasa.
The letter stated that Dr Kizito’s decision to enter politics conflicted with the hospital’s commitment to professionalism and political neutrality.
“Following your communication with our CEO regarding your intention to contest for the position of President, Case Hospital is obliged to maintain strict neutrality and avoid any association with political activities,” it read.
The hospital thanked him for his years of service but confirmed his contract had been terminated with immediate effect.
Dr Kizito has a history of political involvement. In 2011, he contested for Masaka’s mayoral seat and also ran for Parliament, though unsuccessfully. He later picked presidential nomination papers ahead of the 2021 polls but did not stand.
In his latest campaign pledge, Dr Kizito has promised to curb corruption within six months of taking office and redirect recovered funds to health and social services. He has also vowed to pursue constitutional reforms to reduce presidential powers.
The hospital’s decision has sparked debate, as Ugandan law requires public servants—but not employees of private institutions—to resign before running for political office. Case Medical Services has not clarified whether its own internal rules compel staff to step aside in such circumstances.
The BBC has sought comment from both Dr Kizito and Case Hospital.