A special discussion took place this afternoon between former President Ranil Wickremesinghe and representatives of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) at his office on Mal Road, Colombo. The meeting was attended by GMOA President Dr. Sanjeewa Tennakoon, Secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa, Media Spokesperson Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe, and other executive committee members, where key issues affecting government doctors were discussed in detail.
During the discussion, the GMOA raised concerns about the current remuneration system for doctors. They emphasized that the 1/80th additional duty allowance, which is a unique component of doctors’ remuneration, should remain unchanged alongside any basic salary revisions. The representatives also insisted that the 1/20th allowance for work on holidays and Sundays should be maintained as it has been historically. Additionally, the association stressed that the basic salary increase for public servants, as proposed in the 2025 budget, should be implemented without alterations. They also urged the government to give due consideration to their proposals for improving the medical profession and reforming the health service.
Wickremesinghe instructed officials to provide the GMOA with a detailed report on the discussions held with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2022 to 2024, ensuring that no harm comes to public servants. S. Samaratunga, a key official, was directed to hand over this information within two days.
At the conclusion of the meeting, GMOA representatives expressed to Wickremesinghe that the country needs an experienced leader like him in Parliament during this period of uncertainty. In response, Wickremesinghe said, “No… I am waiting to see what happens now, but I will provide you with any support you need.”
The meeting highlighted the growing concerns within the medical sector over salary structures and government policies, as well as speculation about Wickremesinghe’s potential return to active politics.
