KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Chairman of the National Drug Authority (NDA) board, Dr. Medard Bitekyerezo, has moved to clarify the status of the board, firmly stating that it is not a subject of investigation by the Inspector General of Government (IGG).
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Speaking to this reporter over the weekend, Dr. Bitekyerezo addressed what he termed as “negative stories” circulating on social media, which suggested that the board’s operations had been halted.
Dr. Bitekyerezo confirmed that the new NDA board has been in place and conducting its meetings since February 20th, 2026, adding that it has received no communication from the IGG advising them to suspend their operations.
He acknowledged the ongoing inquiries but drew a clear distinction between the board and the secretariat, clarifying that the investigations by the IGG are directed at the Accounting Officers within NDA Management.
The Chair asserted that the board does not handle any funds, as its role is limited to reviewing budgets drafted by Management for ministerial approval. He maintained that he has personally never misappropriated government money.
“The board does not handle money; we only review budgets for the Ministry’s approval. I have never misused government funds. We are a law-abiding board that respects government institutions. It is Management that is under investigation, and we await its outcome,” Dr. Bitekyerezo declared.
Addressing the recent media attacks, Dr. Bitekyerezo suggested they follow a predictable pattern, emerging every three years. He described the attackers as ill-mannered but stated that the board is accustomed to such “blackmail” and remains committed to serving the country with honor.
Affirming his professional conduct as a senior citizen, he confirmed that the board will continue to function normally unless the government issues an official communication stating otherwise.
Board Tenure and Legal Framework
According to the National Drug Policy and Authority Act (Cap. 206), which governs the NDA, board members are appointed to serve a term of three years and are eligible for re-appointment. The authority is managed by a 17-member board appointed by the Minister of Health, and members are required to meet at least six times a year.
While new legislation (the National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025) is currently being processed to modernize the NDA, the 1993 Act remains the current, binding legal framework for tenure.
