Substandard Immunoglobulin import: NPP questions why no action against Keheliya

19 December 2023 07:22 pm Views - 1005

Colombo, Dec. 19 (Daily Mirror)- The National People's Power (NPP) raised concerns over the failure to arrest former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella even after some of the officials who were arrested in connection with the incident involving substandard Immunoglobulin injections, had given statements that the stock of medicine was purchased with the Minister's approval and advice.

Former NPP MP Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa told a news conference that a purchase of a higher value amounting to USD 3 million could not be done without the Minister's approval.

He said the purchase has been made as an emergency purchase without following the due tender procedure, which raises doubts.

"The Health Ministry must take full responsibility over the incident. All those who were involved in this process, including Rambukwella, should be held responsible. We heard that some of the officials who were arrested have given statements that the purchase was done on the advice and approval of former Minister Rambukwella. We wonder why the CID has failed at least to record a statement from him. The President and the Cabinet are trying to protect him," Dr. Jayatissa charged.