The Democratic Party (DP) has called on the government to introduce a policy requiring Ugandans to undergo mandatory health check-ups weekly or monthly as part of efforts to address the increasing cases of sudden deaths in the country.
Addressing journalists at the party headquarters along Balintuma Road in Mengo, Kampala, on Tuesday, DP Women’s League President Sarah Adong said many Ugandans die unexpectedly because they are unaware of underlying health conditions that could be detected through regular medical examinations.
Adong argued that the absence of routine health check-ups and proper medical histories makes it difficult for many people to identify potential health complications before they become life-threatening.
She attributed the sudden death of former Busiro South legislator Charles Matovu to what she described as a lack of regular medical check-ups, while acknowledging the efforts of those who tried to save his life.
Adong observed that several Ugandans have suffered similar unexpected deaths, raising concerns about the importance of preventive healthcare and early diagnosis.
She said a government policy encouraging or requiring routine medical examinations could help identify illnesses at an early stage, enable timely treatment and potentially reduce deaths linked to undetected health conditions.
The DP Women’s League president urged the government to consider measures that would promote a culture of preventive healthcare, allowing Ugandans to monitor their health status rather than seeking medical attention only when symptoms become severe.
By Charles Katabalwa
27th Oct 2026
END