Mulago Hospital to Justice Mulyagonja: Your Husband’s Death Wasn’t on Us

Mulago National Referral Hospital has distanced itself from claims of negligence in the death of John Baptist Kakooza, husband of Constitutional Court Judge Irene Mulyagonja, stating that it is not responsible for the outcome and that the care provided met professional standards.

In a statement issued by the hospital’s Executive Director, Dr. Byanyima K. Rosemary, the institution defended its handling of Kakooza’s treatment, pushing back against public accusations and a viral video that painted a picture of medical malpractice.

Kakooza was admitted to Mulago’s private wing (Ward 6B) on April 9, 2025, following a referral from Nsambya Hospital.

He remained under care for nearly a month before being discharged on May 6, and later died on May 17 at Mukwaya General Hospital.

Justice Mulyagonja had sharply criticised Mulago Hospital, accusing it of failing to provide basic medical necessities such as insulin and a nasogastric tube (NGT), and of delaying essential tests.

She described the treatment her husband received as “frustrating and humiliating.”

Hospital Refutes Claims on Equipment and Medication

Responding to these allegations, Mulago Hospital maintained that the medical team acted appropriately and provided the necessary interventions. Dr. Byanyima clarified that while the medical team recommended inserting an NGT early on, the patient’s attendant initially declined the procedure. It was only accepted six days later, she said.

As for the insulin, the hospital asserted it was readily available and had been administered by a nurse, with the patient’s son present during the process.

The hospital also disputed claims of delayed laboratory tests. It stated that all relevant investigations were carried out in a timely manner to support clinical decisions. The assertion that a routine blood count took 24 hours was specifically denied.

Signs of Recovery Before Discharge

According to Mulago, Kakooza’s condition had been improving by the time he was discharged. Hospital staff reported that he had responded to NGT feeding, resumed medication, and regained stable vital signs. He was able to communicate, sit up in bed, and showed signs of emotional and physical recovery.

“He looked brighter, greeted staff, and expressed gratitude for the care,” the hospital noted. He was discharged in a wheelchair with an NGT in place and given a follow-up appointment.

Hospital Stands by its Practices

In the face of growing public scrutiny, Dr. Byanyima reaffirmed Mulago’s commitment to high standards of patient care.

“We continue to provide specialised healthcare supported by modern technology and a patient-centred approach,” she said.

Mulago concluded that its medical staff followed all standard protocols and did their best in managing Kakooza’s condition.