Nearly 20 civil organisations are scheduled to launch a continuous “satyagraha” protest campaign in front of the Ministry of Health tomorrow (13) condemning Parliamentarians who voted against a no-confidence motion (NCM) targeting Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and demanding solutions to issues in the health sector.

Representatives of several civil organisations, such as the Electricity Consumers Association (ECA), the “Magen Ratata” Organisation, and the All Ceylon Canteen Owners’ Association (ACCOA) held a media briefing in Colombo yesterday (11), where they invited all concerned parties to support the move.  

Speaking to The Daily Morning following the media briefing, Magen Ratata Organisation Chairman Sanjaya Mahawatte said that the NCM against Rambukwella had reflected those who are with the people and those who are not. “The majority of MPs like the existence of the drug mafia, corruption in the health sector, and the procurement of substandard drugs. Now is our time to stand for the people. We will launch our programme on Wednesday (13) with a continuous satyagraha campaign in front of the ministry.”

ECA Chairman Sanjeewa Dhammika, while speaking to The Daily Morning, claimed that a majority of MPs have abused the sovereignty of the people by voting against the NCM against Rambukwella. “They don’t have a backbone. All they do is worship their leaders and companions. Do they have any need or enthusiasm to provide solutions to the issues in the health sector? We invite all concerned parties to get together with us and join the satyagraha campaign. If the MPs do not learn, we should make them learn.”

The main Parliamentary Opposition, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, moved the NCM against Rambukwella over the alleged irresponsible importation of “substandard” pharmaceutical drugs and surgical equipment, and irregularities in the health sector. It was defeated by a majority vote in Parliament on 8 September. A total of 73 MPs voted in favour of the motion and 113 MPs had voted against it while 38 MPs were not present in Parliament during the vote.