Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi, M.P.

Jathika Jana balawegaya (JJB)· Kalutara

Profession: Other

Roster profile ↗

Speeches 26 #149 of 225·#88 in party

Attendance 8/8 days present (of recorded)

Speech history

26 speeches

11 March 2025 AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi argued that public sector digitalization is necessary to prevent manipulation and corruption, citing the Auditor-General’s 2022 findings on Central Cultural Fund payments for archaeology-related recruitments made without proper provisions. He said digital systems would improve accountability and referred to Barcelona’s smart city model as an example of using data and technology to manage costs, address urban challenges, and improve public services. Appropriation Bill, 2025 – Committee Stage Debate (Heads 186, 196, 227) Corruption & Governance ReformPublic Finance Read →
11 March 2025 AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi outlined the distinctions between digitization, digitalization, and digital transformation, arguing that the Ministry of Digital Economy should focus on end-to-end transformation to improve productivity, public service delivery, transparency, and data-driven governance. He cited planned and ongoing measures including SLUDI implementation, ICT infrastructure development, Rs. 160 million for a Data Protection Authority, progress on the GovPay platform, and a total allocation of Rs. 15.77 billion to improve public service efficiency. He also stressed the need to operationalize the Personal Data Protection Act, develop a Digital Security Bill framework, and establish cybersecurity protocols to protect critical systems and national security. Appropriation Bill, 2025 – Committee Stage Debate (Heads 186, 196, 227) EmploymentPublic FinanceInfrastructure Read →
3 March 2025 AI summary Chandima Hettiaratchi moved an Adjournment Motion calling for the reorganization of the National Youth Services Council, its branches, and related bodies such as the National Youth Corps to better deliver youth empowerment, leadership development, vocational training, and social service programmes under the Government’s “A Fulfilled Youth” policy. He alleged that public funds of the Council, including Rs. 100 million transferred before the Presidential Election, had been misused for election campaigning, and said such institutions must be restored to serve youth and the public. He cited Budget allocations of about Rs. 4,000 million for youth institutions and Rs. 38.6 billion for SMEs and youth entrepreneurs, arguing that these should support youth participation in economic, social, technological, and leadership development. Adjournment Motion: Reorganization of National Youth Services Council EmploymentPublic FinanceEducation Read →
1 March 2025 AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi argued that the Government’s mandate is to restore justice, transparency, institutional independence and public trust following past misuse of public assets and funds. He outlined a series of proposed laws and reforms, including measures on public procurement, public asset management, state enterprises, investment protection, AML/CFT, proceeds of crime recovery, disability rights and other regulatory areas. He noted Budget allocations of Rs. 80.2 billion for law and order and Rs. 14 billion to strengthen Mediation Boards, stating that the objective is to protect and recover public assets and hold those responsible for corruption accountable. Committee of Supply: Ministry of Justice and National Integration (Head 110, Heads 228-236, Head 326) Justice & Human RightsPublic FinanceCorruption & Governance Reform Read →
25 February 2025 AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi framed the 2025 Budget as a historic turning point comparable to the 1970 and 1977 Budgets, arguing that its central objective is the “democratization of the economy” through broader participation and fairer distribution of growth. He highlighted targets and measures including 5 per cent growth, investment in agriculture, food security, technology, agro-industry, digital transformation across 12 sectors, and improved public service efficiency and accountability. He also defended salary increases and private-sector wage interventions as necessary to raise purchasing power, and said the Budget seeks to deliver jobs, enterprises, better health and education, and national development. Second Reading Debate: Appropriation Bill 2025 (Continuation Day 7) EmploymentPublic FinanceAgriculture Read →
7 February 2025 AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi argued that Sri Lanka Cricket lacks an integrated development pathway from village and school levels to the national team, creating inequities for players from less-resourced areas and those without connections. Citing the 2023 Audit Report and Special Gazette No. 2310/26 under the Sports Law, he raised concerns over allowances paid to an MP holding cricket administrative positions and the absence of proper annual planning. He called for removing corrupt elements from cricket administration and implementing a national sports policy based on equitable access, infrastructure, professionalism, and cooperation among public, private, and NGO sectors. Adjournment Debate: Sri Lanka Cricket Development and Anti-Corruption Measures Corruption & Governance ReformEducation Read →