In a strategic move, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe undertook a significant Cabinet reshuffle on October 23. This decision marked the first major restructuring of his government, and it involved the reallocation of responsibilities for two key ministers. However, the move did not come without criticism from the opposition, who speculated that it might be a maneuver to delay the upcoming elections scheduled for the economically challenged nation next year.

Of particular note in this shuffle was the reassignment of Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, who had been at the center of public dissatisfaction for weeks due to his perceived mishandling of the health portfolio. Rambukwella, 69, had recently faced a vote of no confidence in Parliament initiated by the opposition. This move was intended to draw attention to allegations of inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement within the Ministry of Health.

Rambukwella's tenure as Health Minister had taken a controversial turn when he ordered a police investigation into the alleged supply of substandard drugs by an Indian company to Sri Lanka. The Indian company in question had strongly denied any such supply to a Sri Lankan importer, deepening the controversy.

The Environment Ministry had been under the direct control of President Wickremesinghe after the incumbent minister was disqualified as a Member of Parliament due to a court ruling.

With this Cabinet reshuffle, the responsibility for the Health Ministry has been transferred to Ramesh Pathirana, a qualified doctor who also serves as the Minister of Industries.

President Wickremesinghe's decision to carry out a relatively minor reshuffle in his government came under scrutiny from the opposition, who suggested that it might be an attempt to postpone the major elections scheduled for the following year. However, Wickremesinghe addressed these concerns on a Sunday, emphasizing his commitment to holding both Presidential and Parliamentary elections next year, in accordance with the constitutional requirements.

Read More News:

Recommencement of India-Sri Lanka Passenger Ferry Service After Four Decades

India-Sri Lanka Ferry Service to Boost Trade, Reinforce Bilateral Bonds: PM Modi