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President stresses need to strengthen the NCP
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the importance of implementing a procurement plan and strengthening the National Procurement Commission (NPC).
The President shared these views in a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (28), where he engaged in an in-depth discussion with NPC officials on the current procurement laws and procedures.
Officials from the National Procurement Commission informed the President that although around 60% of all government expenditures, including capital expenses, should ideally follow a proper procurement process, shortcomings in this process are causing significant losses to the government.
This, they noted, creates greater opportunities for fraud and corruption.
The discussion also covered issues related to delays, lack of transparency, and inefficiencies in the procurement process. Attention was given to minimizing shortcomings in handling unsolicited proposals and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) procurements.
President Dissanayake pointed out the need to further expand the authority of the NPC to establish more systematic procurement planning.
The meeting was attended by Secretary to the Presidential Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, NPC Chairperson Sudharma Karunaratne, and other officials from the National Procurement Commission.
(President’s Media Division)
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Postal strike ends
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“Mask up if feeling unwell”
Leading expert in Allergy, Immunology and Molecular Medicine – Professor Chandima Jeewandara has recommended handwashing and mask wearing for individuals feeling unwell, stating that it would be key in mitigating the spread of Covid-19.
On a X thread, Prof. Jeewandara had shared this advice as the new COVID-19 variant – NB.1.8.1, is causing a rise in cases worldwide.
“The symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 are broadly similar to earlier COVID-19 strains, including sore throat, fatigue, fever, mild cough, muscle aches, and nasal congestion. Notably, hoarseness has emerged as a common symptom distinguishing it from earlier variants,” Prof. Jeewandara has said.
“Current data suggests that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants. Most infections are mild, especially among vaccinated individuals,” he adds.
“While the emergence of NB.1.8.1 is notable, there is currently no cause for alarm. Continued vigilance and adhere to public health guidelines MOH,” he further notes.
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Postal strike ends
“Mask up if feeling unwell”
