Fascist govt loots crores of taka purchasing unnecessary medical equipment: Sakhawat

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakawat Hossain has alleged the previous “fascist government” misappropriated hundreds of billions of taka by purchasing medical equipment far beyond actual requirements.

“There was no manpower and no technicians, yet equipment worth billions of taka was purchased and left unused. Now, there is no option but to sell some of this equipment as scrap,” he said.

The minister made the remarks on Monday while addressing a views-exchange meeting as the chief guest. The meeting was organised by Manikganj district administration at Deputy Commissioner’s Office conference room to coordinate law and order, development and public welfare activities. Food Minister Afroza Khanam attended the programme as a special guest.

Stressing the need to ensure integrity and accountability across all sectors of healthcare, Sakawat Hossain said hospitals must ensure quality food for patients and that doctors and nurses should treat patients with humanity, sincerity and courtesy.

He said the quality of healthcare services must be improved at every level, adding that one issue that repeatedly came to the forefront was corruption.
“We must implement a zero-tolerance policy against corruption,” the minister said.

Stressing that there could be no compromise in the fight against drugs, the health minister said those involved in drug-related activities, as well as those who provide shelter or protection to drug traders, must be brought to justice.

If anyone released on bail becomes involved in drug-related activities again, they should be rearrested when necessary, he said, adding that drugs must be eliminated at any cost.

The meeting was chaired by Manikganj Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana.

Manikganj-1 Member of Parliament SA Jinnah Kabir and Manikganj-2 Member of Parliament Moinul Islam Khan were also present as special guests.