Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal has urged for stringent penalties against those accountable for the deaths of 14 newborns in the recent PIMS tragedy, emphasizing that the issue must not be ignored or concealed.
Speaking on a current affairs program, Kamal stated that the government is awaiting the inquiry committee’s report, established by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and assured that its recommendations will be executed precisely as outlined. The committee is expected to submit its findings within 48 hours, with a substantial number of individuals already summoned for questioning.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Kamal insisted that if criminal negligence is proven, legal cases must be filed. He stressed that the response should go beyond mere departmental measures, calling for the harshest punishments for those responsible.
The minister revealed that he has been in continuous communication with the prime minister, who is deeply affected by the incident and personally committed to overseeing the investigation and final decisions.
Kamal underscored the importance of transparency, stating that the incident must not be covered up and that identifying and penalizing the culprits is essential to prevent future tragedies. He poignantly remarked that no innocent child should lose their life due to negligence.
Expressing his distress over the newborn deaths, Kamal warned that if such fatal incidents continue, hospitals should face closure. When questioned about PIMS administration, he admitted uncertainty regarding the appointment of the hospital’s executive director but noted his preference for promoting individuals already within the system to leadership roles.
Regarding financial matters, Kamal explained that the budget is allocated by the Finance Division, with the health ministry only able to make recommendations. He added that the ministry has never received the full budget it has requested.
In a significant development, Kamal welcomed the proposal to establish a joint parliamentary committee to investigate the tragedy, emphasizing that all necessary measures should be taken to ensure such incidents do not recur.
