Dr. Sanjeewa, Chairman of the Doctors' Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights, stated that several doctors and pharmacists who held senior roles across key institutions—including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment, State Pharmaceuticals Corporation, National Medicines Regulatory Authority, and the Medical Supplies Division—continue to hold influential positions under the current administration.
He emphasized that the failure of authorities to investigate issues previously highlighted by the Auditor General has exacerbated the ongoing crisis in the health sector.
According to Dr. Sanjeewa, there are growing suspicions of large-scale corruption and irregularities in the procurement and distribution of medicines during previous administrations. He pointed to the Attorney General’s recent notification to the Supreme Court, indicating that the Criminal Investigation Department would initiate probes into nearly one million drug imports, as evidence of the seriousness of the issue.
He further claimed that the National Medicines Regulatory Authority has failed to effectively enforce drug regulation, while the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s alleged disregard for audit findings could result in continued questionable dealings with pharmaceutical suppliers.
Dr. Sanjeewa also noted critical administrative gaps within the Ministry of Health, including the failure to appoint a permanent Deputy Director General of Health Services and a Director for the Medical Supplies Division. He expressed concern that complaints from both senior and junior officials regarding irregular tender procedures have not been properly investigated.
He added that similar concerns had been raised during the tenure of former Minister Rambukwella and warned that the continuation of such practices could further destabilize the health system.
Dr. Sanjeewa said he has repeatedly urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to appoint a special Presidential Commission of Inquiry to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
