Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today addressed Parliament, expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for committing to a clear amendment to the Constitution. He emphasized that the amendment should include a comprehensive analysis of fundamental rights in Sri Lanka and implement them in a broad sense—not limited to civil and political rights but also encompassing free healthcare, free education, cultural rights, religious rights, and more.
Highlighting a pressing public health concern, Premadasa pointed out the recent issue of substandard vaccines, which have tragically resulted in the deaths of two young women in the Habarakada and Mathugama areas. He warned that an unauthorized drug mafia is operating in the country. Premadasa stressed that by recognizing health as a fundamental right in the Constitution, the right to life would also be reinforced. He called on the government to clearly present the measures it intends to take regarding substandard medicines.
Premadasa further criticized the firing of Dr. Rukshan Bellana, who had exposed corruption and fraud in the health sector through media statements. He described the dismissal as unfair, asserting that Dr. Bellana has the right to speak out on issues of substandard medicines and corruption. The Opposition Leader reiterated that the right to life and health are basic rights, and noted the injustice that, despite lives being lost due to substandard medicine, no one has yet been held accountable or banned from work.
