Rotary calls for Life Sentences on proof of misallocation of resources

The Rotary District for Sri Lanka and the Maldives has come together in support of the broader economy and shall use its international connections to channel funds for the procurement of essentials like medicines.

Rotary, though remaining strictly non-partisan, has come out in support of the cost of living protests. Rotary has already worked with the relevant health authorities claiming to be instrumental in the rollout of the polio vaccine in the country.

President-Elect Pubudu De Soyza noted that working with the relevant health authorities but at the same time playing a role in the procurement process helped ensure that there was both a better understanding of the requirements of the health sector while maintaining transparency and oversight for the benefit of the donor community. Soyza was speaking on May 8 at the Radisson Hotel in Colombo just before the walk to the Galle Face Protest.

The club was previously involved in the rollout of the Polio vaccine wherein even cooperation with the LTTE was sought to allow for ceasefires on vaccine rollout days. Zoysa said, “Working with the relevant medical authorities helps us ensure that there is equal distribution even to hospitals in the rural areas.”

The medicines procured are all NMRA approved. Former Head of the entire Rotary organization KR Ravindran noted that there should be the utmost transparency in the procurement process of goods and services. Ravindran called for life sentences on the conviction of the misallocation of resources held for the public benefit.

After the devastation of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Ravindran led Rotary’s recovery efforts by helping to raise US$12 million to rebuild 22 schools, enabling nearly 15,000 children to resume their studies. Ravindran noted that buildings for schools assisted by Rotary were even winning architectural awards. On a previous occasion, Ravindran said, “The tsunami could take away schools, homes, possessions, and even loved ones, but it would never be allowed to take away the spirit of children.”