Removal of Epidemiology Chief: Health Minister non-committal

• Being irresponsible in releasing data means a serious offence

By Sheain Fernandopulle

Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi yesterday declined to comment when reporters asked as to why the Epidemiology Unit Chief was removed. 

She just left the scene with an awkward smile without giving any response to what reporters asked regarding the removal of the Epidemiology Chief.

However, when inquired, State Minister Sudarshini Fernandopulle said the data on COVID-19 deaths have been released in an irresponsible manner.

“The Government takes decisions after taking the COVID-19 figures into account,” she underlined.

“Being irresponsible in releasing data means a serious offence,” she added. Meanwhile, when asked whether there is a conspiracy behind the move to release inaccurate COVID-19 figures, she said it is not possible to say directly that it was a conspiracy.