The government’s defense of the Chief Medical Officer comes as a response to claims that she was the driving force behind the vaccine mandate of 2021.
That mandate resulted in the dismissal of over 500 workers, a situation the current administration has characterized as an act of wickedness and a gross injustice to the workforce.
Minister Cummings explicitly stated that it is not true that the Chief Medical Officer required people to be dismissed. Instead, he labeled the mandate as the brainchild of the former prime minister, asserting that the previous leader insisted on the policy while refusing to hear from professional voices.
The Minister further emphasized that the current government, led by Prime Minister Godwin Friday, intends to support public servants based on merit rather than political affiliation.
He argued that Dr. Keizer-Beache has never been involved in politics and should not be punished for the political activities of her husband.
He maintained that her continued service is based on the quality of her work and her passion for public health.
Beyond the controversy of the 2021 mandate, the government pointed to the Chief Medical Officer’s proactive leadership in ongoing reforms.
These include discussions to introduce specialized mental health training for law enforcement and the legal department, as well as collaborative efforts with the Caribbean Public Health Agency.
The Minister’s remarks were made during a briefing focused on introducing a new leadership team and outlining safety measures for the upcoming carnival season.
In a press conference in June, Cummings in support the leadership of the health sector, commended Chief Medical Officer Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache, describing her as one of the most distinguished medical officials in the Caribbean.
Addressing the media and public health officials, the Minister highlighted her competence, wealth of experience, and a level of dedication to her role that he described as unsurpassed.
