Doctors to protest on Nov. 10 as Development Officers launch sick-note campaign tomorrow

Newswire reports that the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) held a protest outside the National Hospital in Colombo on November 10. Ada Derana and Hiru News also reported that the association planned a Colombo protest that day, with Hiru specifying the area opposite the hospital.

Newswire reports that doctors raised concerns about salaries and allowances, including the Disturbance, Availability and Transport allowance, as well as official residences and alleged restrictions on trade union activity. The outlet says banners also objected to proposed legislation: the Protection of the State from Terrorism Act and the Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill. Protesters called for protection of freedom of expression, assembly and association, according to Newswire.

Newswire reports that GMOA Assistant Secretary Chamil Wijesinghe expected thousands of doctors from district and provincial branches to attend and urged the government to address the association’s concerns in the 2027 Budget, due to be presented to Parliament on November 12. Newswire says he stated the demonstration would not be a strike and that hospital patient-care arrangements would continue as usual. He also indicated that further action could follow if the demands were not addressed.

Newswire separately reports that the Joint Health Workers’ Union planned demonstrations around the country on November 10, seeking solutions to health workers’ concerns through the Budget. Its General Secretary, Ven. Tampitiye Sugathananda Thera, was cited as saying the demonstrations were intended to press the government to respond.

Daily Mirror reports that Development Officers across the country planned to report sick on November 9 as part of a campaign over unresolved demands. Newswire later reported that Development Officers had launched an islandwide sick-leave campaign that day.