COVID-19 pandemic - Govt. hiding the truth from the people: Ruwan

The information released by the government on the COVID-19 situation is questionable and might lead to more health officers keeping away from prevention activities, UNP Deputy General Secretary Ruwan Wijewardene said yesterday at an election rally in Gampaha.

“COVID-19 seems to be spreading across the country and it is doubtful whether correct information is being revealed to the people. The Sri Jayawardenepura University Laboratory had decided to stop conducting PCR tests because of alleged cover ups with regard to testing. It had actually decided to keep away from PCR testing following a disclosure of information being supressed. This situation has turned into a crisis” he said. “The government seems to be ignoring the advise given by medical officers and health officers and giving priority to its political aspirations. It may be the reason why some health officers have kept away from carrying out their duties. It looks as if the government had forgotten its duty of safeguarding people from the deadly virus."

Mr. Wijewardena said ruling party candidates were repeatedly violating election laws thus endangering the rule of law in the country.

"They prevent State officers from carrying out their duty. Some candidates who had entered the fray are bent on taking over UNP and its headquarters but are not talking about their policies and their plans to develop the country," he said.  (Yohan Perera)