The Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court has remanded an assistant nursing officer over allegations of illegally practicing medicine, conducting an unauthorized surgical procedure, and committing a negligent act likely to spread infection.
Thirty-seven-year-old John Bosco Otim appeared before Chief Magistrate Ritah Neube Kidasa, where he was formally charged but denied all the accusations brought against him.
Prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Grace Army, informed the court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing and requested more time. The court consequently remanded Otim until March 2.
According to the charge sheet, Otim, a resident of Bukedea Town Council in Bukedea District, faces three counts arising from events that allegedly occurred at Atutur General Hospital in Kumi District.
The first charge relates to the alleged practice of nursing without a valid license, contrary to the provisions of the Nurses and Midwives Act. Prosecutors allege that from March 31, 2014, to date, Otim worked as an assistant nursing officer without obtaining a valid practicing license from the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council.
The second count accuses him of practicing medicine without registration or authority under the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act.
It is alleged that on April 30, 2025, Otim performed a surgical procedure on a patient identified as Michael Aisu, despite not being registered or authorized to practice as a medical practitioner.
The third charge concerns a negligent act likely to spread infection or disease.
Prosecutors allege that on the same date, Otim conducted the procedure in a room not designated as an operating theatre and without the required sterile surgical instruments; actions they say could endanger life.
The case is scheduled to return to court on March 2 as investigations continue.
By Our Reporter
10th Feb 2026
END
