Samagi Jana Balawegaya Parliamentarian Patali Champika Ranawaka says an individual with expert knowledge in the field should have been appointed as the new Minister of Health.
Speaking during a media briefing in Colombo today, MP Ranawaka said a medical professional elected to Parliament, representing the government, should have been appointed as the Health Minister.
The Parliamentarian said free education and healthcare are two of the most important sectors adding Sri Lanka is ahead in the world in these areas.
He said Ministers appointed to the field must gain the respect of fellow professionals adding however that the new appointments have only led to disappointment.
MP Ranawaka said the government failed to appoint a qualified professional from within the government adding MP Prof. Tissa Vitarana, State Minister Sudarshini Fernandopulle and Minister Ramesh Pathirana would have been more suitable.
The Parliamentarian said the appointment of the new Minister has caused further despair amongst medical staff.
He however said while the Minister is not at fault, decision makers should be conscious when carrying out duties.
MP Ranawaka said public expectations were not fulfilled through yesterday’s Cabinet reshuffle.
He said the aim of the Cabinet reshuffle was to lay blame on former Ministers due to public unrest over the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Parliamentarian said responsibility lies with the President and others who are centralising power.
He said there will be no positive outcome from granting Minister Namal Rajapaksa a new portfolio, just as there was no positive outcome on the economy with the appointment of Basil Rajapaksa as Minister of Finance.
