Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court has mandated that statements be recorded from 18 former cabinet ministers regarding their involvement in approving the distribution of substandard medicines to government hospitals. This court order is part of an investigation into the procurement and supply of medicines that allegedly failed to meet essential safety and quality standards.
The ministers served under the previous administration and were members of the cabinet that authorized the purchase and distribution of the medicines in question. Due to their roles in approving these procurements, the court has instructed that their statements be obtained to clarify their decision-making processes and any awareness they may have had about the quality concerns surrounding these medicines.
This investigation highlights the accountability issues in government procurement processes, particularly for critical supplies like pharmaceuticals intended for public health institutions. The court’s directive underscores the necessity for transparency and stringent oversight in decisions impacting public welfare. Further developments are expected as statements from the former cabinet members are recorded and reviewed by investigators.
