Specialist Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, Chairman of the Doctors' Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights, has alleged that delays in investigating corruption and fraud in the health sector are causing serious harm to patients.
He said that he, along with the Auditor General, had submitted evidence to the Criminal Investigation Department and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption regarding several alleged incidents that took place during the tenure of former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and thereafter.
Dr. Sanjeewa claimed that the failure to conduct proper investigations and take legal action against responsible state officials has raised serious concerns about ongoing corruption within the Ministry of Health and related institutions.
He added that the Auditor General had already presented evidence relating to the substandard drug controversy, alleged reagent fraud at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, and irregularities within the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation and the National Medicines Regulatory Authority.
Dr. Sanjeewa further alleged that despite nearly a year passing since the reported Rs. 2,500 million reagent fraud at the Colombo National Hospital, the investigation has not been properly completed, while tenders are still being awarded to the same controversial company.
He also claimed that officials linked to alleged corruption within the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation and other institutions continue to remain in office due to the lack of disciplinary action.
