In a significant development within Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector, Dr. Palitha Mahipala has been appointed as the new Secretary to the Ministry of Health. Dr. Mahipala assumed his duties today (20).

Dr. Mahipala’s appointment comes as a replacement for outgoing Health Secretary Janaka Sri Chandragupta. Chandragupta’s tenure had been marred by controversy, stemming from the scandal involving the import of 22,500 substandard immunoglobulin vials.

Chandragupta had been barred from overseas travel by the courts last week in connection with the immunoglobulin scandal. Dr. Mahipala brings a wealth of experience to the role of Health Secretary, having previously served as the Director General of Health Services and an Additional Secretary within the Ministry of Health.