SANCTIONS befitting the “unacceptable” behaviour of Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, ought to be imposed by President Donald Ramotar.This was the view of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), which was expressed at a news conference yesterday.
The Guyanese leader, in a statement yesterday said, “The statements and behaviour of the minister do not reflect the high standards I have set for ministerial conduct nor the public’s expectations of an office holder. It is outright disrespectful and improper. I intend to have further discussions with the minister on this matter,” the Guyanese leade said.”
Recent comments made during and after a confrontation with local social activist, Sherlina Nageer, landed Ramsaran in hot water. The Health Minister on Monday reportedly talked about having Nageer “slapped” and “stripped” when approached by her on the issues of maternal and child deaths. Subsequently, he apologised for his comments, attributing his outburst to the fact that he was provoked to anger.
“It was unfortunate that I was provoked into anger and uttered harsh words at her for which I now regret,” the minister said in his apology.
However, a recording of a meeting he held with Regional Health Officers (RHOs) Wednesday, was made public and Dr Ramsaran was heard repeating some of what he said on Monday, as well as charging that Nageer is “rabid,” a “miscreant” and in need of “psychiatric help.”
The gravity of the debacle considered, PSC Chairman said, “We expect that the President will act as the situation requires.”
The leadership of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Ramsaran’s colleagues, as well as members of civil society have condemned his behaviour.