The no-confidence motion against Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella is set to be debated in the parliament on September 06, 07, and 08.
The Parliamentary Business Committee has made this decision, as confirmed by the Parliament's Communication Department.
The motion of no confidence, which was handed over to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena on July 21, has been initiated by the main opposition party, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB). It carries the signatures of 45 Members of Parliament, including SJB's General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara and MP Kavinda Jayawardena.
The motion alleges that the Health Minister is responsible for the importation of substandard medicines and surgical equipment, which has had severe consequences for the health sector and even resulted in deaths. The opposition claims that these substandard drugs were procured and brought into the country outside of the proper procurement and registration process, under the pretext of a state of emergency.
The move to debate and vote on the motion comes after mounting pressure and concerns raised by the opposition regarding the alleged mishandling of the health sector. The opposition argues that the government's continued importation of substandard drugs has significantly weakened the health sector, risking the lives of citizens.
The debate on the motion is expected to shed light on the alleged irresponsible practices of the Health Minister and the impact they have had on the health sector. It will provide an opportunity for both sides to present their arguments and evidence.
The vote on the no-confidence motion is scheduled to take place on the evening of September 08 (Friday). This vote will determine whether Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella retains his position or is removed from office.
The outcome of this no-confidence motion carries significant implications for the future of the health sector and the government's handling of the procurement and regulation of medicines and equipment. It remains to be seen how the debate and subsequent vote will unfold, and whether it will lead to any changes in the leadership of the health ministry.
