ZUPP Opposes ZAMMSA Leadership Change

 

... Pharmaceutical Union Demands Transparency and Accountability in Decision-Making Process and order the government to reverse the decision of the minister 

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 (08-11-2024) - Zambia Pharmaceutical Professionals have strongly criticized the unilateral dismissal of Acting Director General of the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), Luku Alituli, without giving him an opportunity to explain his side of the story.

Isaac Mushinge, National Treasurer of the Zambia Union of Pharmaceutical Professionals (ZUPP), told journalists at a press briefing that the decision made by the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Elias Chimba, was not only troubling but also lacked the necessary transparency and due process.

Mushinge expressed concern over the abrupt manner in which the dismissal was carried out, stating that no formal announcement or written communication was made to clarify the reasons behind the decision.

 "It is unacceptable that such a significant action was taken without first hearing the views of the Acting Director General," Mushinge said. 

"This lack of transparency is deeply concerning for all of us in the pharmaceutical profession, and it undermines the credibility of the Ministry of Health."

The ZUPP also raised questions about the involvement of external donors in the decision-making process. 

Mushinge pointed to comments made by the Minister, suggesting that donors were dissatisfied with the management of ZAMMSA and had influenced the leadership change. 

"We are now left wondering if decisions about our healthcare system are being dictated by donors rather than the needs of the Zambian people. 

The Minister's statement raises serious concerns about the independence of our public health institutions," Mushinge said.

In addition to criticizing the Minister's actions, the union emphasized that the responsibility for appointing and dismissing civil servants lies with the Public Service Commission, not individual government ministers.

"The Constitution of Zambia clearly outlines the process for appointing and dismissing public servants. It is not the Minister’s role to make such decisions unilaterally," Mushinge asserted.

The union also reminded the Minister of the significant progress made under previous leadership at ZAMMSA. 

Mushinge highlighted that under qualified professionals, ZAMMSA had improved the availability of essential medicines in health facilities across the country. 

"The efforts of past leaders have been instrumental in ensuring that over 90% of essential medicines are now available in Zambian hospitals. This progress must not be undone by hasty and unsubstantiated decisions," he said.

The ZUPP’s statement concluded with a call for the Minister to urgently reconsider his decision and for a more transparent approach to decision-making. 

The union is also seeking an audience with President Hakainde Hichilema to discuss their concerns and ensure that the interests of the pharmaceutical profession are properly represented in the governance of ZAMMSA.

"We urge the Minister of Health to take these concerns seriously and reconsider the dismissal. The health of every Zambian is too important to be subjected to instability and poor decision-making," Mushinge concluded.

The ZUPP has warned that if their concerns are not addressed, they will consider further actions to ensure the proper management and governance of ZAMMSA.

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