Dr. S.M. Arnold is to be appointed the new Deputy Director General of Health Services (DDGHS) of the Ministry of Health, a position Dr. Hemantha Herath had filled in an acting capacity up until yesterday (8), multiple Health Ministry sources confirmed to The Morning yesterday.
Attempts to contact Dr. Arnold, who is currently the Director for the Quarantine Unit of the Ministry of Health, regarding this appointment proved futile. When inquired, the office of Dr. Arnold informed us that a confirmation regarding the appointment needs to come from the doctor himself, but confirmed that Dr. Arnold has been a candidate for the position.
The role of the DDGHS was left vacant following the departure of Dr. Paba Palihawadana until Dr. Herath was appointed in an acting capacity.
When contacted, Dr. Herath confirmed that his role as the Acting DDGHS would come to an end with effect from today (9).
“From today onwards, I will not be able to comment in the capacity of the Acting DDGHS, as I was only covering for the post. My tenure in the position has come to an end.”
Dr. Herath would, however, continue to be the Director of the National Programme for Tuberculosis Control and Chest Diseases of the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Arnold to replace Dr. Hemantha Herath as DDGHS
09 Mar 2021
Dr. Arnold to replace Dr. Hemantha Herath as DDGHS
09 Mar 2021