Dr. Mahipala out from Health Ministry; removal or resignation?

• Dr Arjuna Thilakarathne tipped to be next secretary

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The sudden removal of Dr. Palitha Mahipala as the Secretary to the Ministry of Health has raised concerns among health professionals, as the exact reasons for his dismissal remain unclear.

According to informed sources, the removal is a result of Dr. Mahipala’s failure to address key issues affecting the health sector such as doctor transfers.  However, his removal has raised concerns among health officials, who argue that it is a mistake by the new government.   

Additional Secretary Wathsala Priyadharshani has reportedly been appointed to oversee the duties of the Health Secretary.   

Further, sources told Daily Mirror that Dr Arjuna Thilakarathne is tipped to be the next Health Secretary. Meanwhile, Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe, spokesperson for the GMOA, said although the exact reason behind the removal of Dr. Mahipala is unclear, a new secretary should be appointed without delay and he has big shoes to fill.   

Dr. Mahipala was appointed as the new Health Secretary in November 2023.  

Prior to his appointment as the secretary, Dr. Mahipala previously served as the Director General of Health Services. He was also appointed WHO Representative in Pakistan in April 2019.   

Daily Mirror’s attempts to contact Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa failed.