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NMRA CEO Dr. Semage quits, blaming Kumudesh

01 Jun 2022

  • Kumudesh responds saying Semage was unsuitable
BY Dinitha Rathnayake National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) CEO Dr. Saveen Semage announced his resignation on social media, blaming the move on College of Medical Laboratory Science President Ravi Kumudesh, over the latter’s allegations against the NMRA in connection with the present pharmaceutical drugs shortage. Dr. Semage charged: “Political idiots such as Kumudesh, and political elites, are blaming the NMRA for the crisis in the country. I am resigning as the CEO of the Authority as I have been asked to resign.  “During my tenure at the Authority, it became clear to me as to how corrupt the public service is. I was able to understand the magnitude of the huge amount of money lost to the Government due to the drug trade and therefore, I kindly request the President to conduct a formal investigation into the large-scale corruption that has taken place and to punish the relevant officials accordingly. In such an inquiry, I will present all the information I know, and without any hesitation support it.”  He went on to state: “I have not cheated a single cent in addition to my salary during the last 32 years of service, and I am humbled and proud to have had the strength to work in an institution where such rampant fraud takes place and to leave with dignity without a single cent of fraud. I also challenge Kumudesh to point out that I have committed such a fraud or that I am responsible for the shortage of drugs in Sri Lanka.”  Meanwhile, responding to Dr. Semage, Kumudesh stated: “Doing only what you think is best for you can cause you to lose your self-esteem. I have no personal issue with you, but I still think that someone more suitable than you should be appointed to that position. If you respect your ego, you should also consider a shoe that fits your foot.” Kumudesh also claimed that NMRA Chairman Dr. Rasitha Wijewantha is a political appointee, and has been given the position due to being a member of the Viyathmaga (Professionals for a Better Future).  “He has no administration-, pharmacology-, or public health-related qualification or knowledge, and is responsible for the NMRA data loss.” He also alleged that Dr. Semage was appointed in violation of the NMRA Act, and that he had not applied or taken part in the requisite interview. Earlier, the Joint Council of Professions Supplementary to Medicine (PSMs) claimed that due to the current activities of the NMRA, the local production of drugs in the country has been discouraged. Speaking to The Morning, Joint Council President Kumudesh claimed that domestic drug production in the country has been discouraged due to not granting permission to the participating institutions.  “The NMRA has become a serious obstacle in obtaining donations for the current health care system. Ignoring the reality of our country's economy or the health care provided to the patients, having to pay around $ 10 for an unwanted product is not good for our economy.” According to Kumudesh, in a meeting held with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on 25 May, it was advised to purchase the best quality, low-priced medicines, especially from India, without concern about the brand. He also said that the Premier had also advised the authorities to encourage local drug manufacturing companies, taking into account the high prices and shortages. Dr. Wijewantha was not available for immediate comment regarding Dr. Semage’s situation.


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