Through your kind auspices, I wish to inform the general public that my retirement from the public service, originally scheduled for November 2017, has been brought forward to Friday 14 July 2017.
The instruction to retire “with immediate effect” was received by way of letter delivered to me at my private residence by two police officers at around 330pm that same day.
The letter was signed by Mrs. Torfrida Rochester, Chief Personnel Officer, Human Resource Management Department, Office of the Prime Minister.
Matters arising are being addressed by my attorneys.
The Chief Medical Officer is a very senior post in the public service. As such, significant personnel changes warrant timely public disclosure. Therefore, noting the absence to date of an official statement, I reiterate that I am no longer the substantive holder of the post of Chief Medical Officer of the Federation effective Friday 14 July 2017.
I was honoured to take up the mantle of CMO in October 2004. This health leadership post is demanding especially in a country with very limited resources. All that was achieved was due entirely to the guidance of and the collaboration with colleagues in population health and clinical medicine, at home and the region.
It has been a pleasure and privilege to work within and across departments, sectors and borders to advance health policies, programs and services. The intellectual battles, successes and friendships are treasured memories.
Appreciation is extended to the successive governments, ministers of health and officials in national and regional health entities for the opportunities provided to serve my beloved country and region.
I will continue to be available to media and others on matters of health and development, and related subjects. Best wishes to all.