The recent strike launched by the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) has drawn criticism for being poorly organised and failing to exert meaningful pressure on the government.
An internal spokesperson said the trade union action could have been more effective with better planning. He noted that authorities did not concede to the demands because they perceived the strike as lacking coordination and strength.
“The strike could have put more pressure on the government. But the authorities did not give in to the demands because they knew it was not well organised,” he said, adding that the government remained firm throughout the action.
However, GMOA Secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa defended the move, describing it as a symbolic protest rather than a disruptive strike.
He explained that the action was intended to oppose measures that allegedly undermine the transfer process, not to severely impact healthcare services.
The strike comes amid an ongoing dispute between the GMOA and health authorities over post-internship appointments.
According to the GMOA, junior doctors were pressured into applying for positions, with alleged threats including job loss, salary suspension, and eviction from hospital quarters.
Dr. Sugathadasa said many young doctors have been placed in a difficult and uncertain situation.
“They were under pressure. They were afraid for their future,” he said.
