Sitting of Wednesday, 4 June 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1750240054043973 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening and Papers Tabling 5 speeches
- 2 Procedural Procedural Matter: Access to Hansard and Tabled Annexes 11 speeches
- 3 Papers Papers: Annual Reports and Committee Reports 11 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question: India–Sri Lanka Agreements and Education Policy 26 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Questions: NYSC Training Centres, Preschools, and Education Reforms 20 speeches
- 6 Oral question Question by Private Notice: Colombo–Kankesanthurai Train Service and Tourism Promotion 5 speeches
- 7 Debate Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill — Committee Stage 3 speeches
- 8 Debate Debate: Anti-Corruption Act Regulations 58 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Moved approval of regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act to operationalize updated asset and liability declaration procedures, stating they were vetted by CIABOC and intended to meet modern transparency standards. He said the regulations allow genuine omissions to be corrected while targeting deliberate concealment, and proposed explanatory guidance to help the public complete the forms. He linked the measures to the Government’s anti-corruption mandate and cited recent court cases and policy actions, including disposal of luxury vehicles and investigations into alleged false claims, as examples of enforcing accountability through due process.
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka noted that, although the House was scheduled to sit until 5.00 p.m. and the debate on the Anti-Corruption Act Regulations had been set for 1.00 p.m., it began at 11.00 a.m. He stated that, as additional time had become available within a shortened sitting day for speakers, the speakers’ list would be revised accordingly.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Proceedings were confirmed to continue until 5.00 p.m.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran ITAK
AI summary Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran supported the regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act but called for separate legislation to investigate the sources, foreign links, and use of funds received by recognized political parties. He urged stronger action against drug trafficking targeting students, including police complicity, and requested gazette recognition of the Kataragama pilgrimage to enable public servants to obtain leave. He also asked that the State-returned Kataragama pilgrims’ rest be handed back to the Ramakrishna Mission, and proposed reforms to public recruitment practices or, alternatively, soft loans and training for graduates and non-graduates to promote self-employment.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister supported amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act, stating that they are intended to ensure accurate declarations of assets and liabilities and prevent false or incomplete submissions. He linked the reforms to the Government’s anti-corruption mandate and rejected claims that omissions could be excused as forgetfulness. He also criticized opposition allegations about government misconduct, citing investigations into claims about the President’s assets and presenting North Central Provincial Council auction notices to dispute allegations about vehicle sales.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe rejected allegations that North Central Provincial Council vehicles were sold for Rs. 28 million, tabling valuation and tender documents to show that disposals followed Government Valuation procedures, were publicly advertised, and in several cases received bids above valuation while bids below valuation were rejected. He also referred to allegations about fast-tracked port container releases, stating that a committee chaired by the Finance Minister had examined Customs actions and that investigations were nearing completion. He said the Government would strengthen laws and pursue inquiries through CIABOC, FCID and CID to address theft, fraud and corruption.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a Point of Order seeking leave to table a deed relating to a house in Anuradhapura. He alleged that a government MP who is a lawyer had a property valued at Rs. 50 million recorded in the deed as Rs. 5 million, and claimed this indicated bribery.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that allegations regarding port container releases are being investigated by a committee under the Finance Minister. He said any false statements should be referred to the CID and emphasized that the Government is acting within the law to address corruption and prevent public misinformation.
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary He supported the presentation of Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act and said he had complied with asset declaration requirements, but urged the Minister of Justice to respect the Judiciary and avoid public statements implying political responsibility for court-ordered remands. He criticized the Government’s performance, citing concerns over “Clean Sri Lanka,” public events, appointments, statistics, and what he described as reliance on publicized arrests through anti-corruption processes rather than substantive delivery. He called on the Government to correct course, heed Opposition criticisms where valid, protect public confidence in the President, and focus on measurable economic results, including bringing revenue to the Treasury.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe raised a Point of Order objecting to a previous speaker naming him and alleging he would be imprisoned. He challenged the Opposition to file a complaint against him if they had grounds, and accused them of misusing parliamentary privilege to make false claims.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath supported the Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, arguing that they are necessary to build a transparent, corruption-free State after decades of misuse of public funds and state resources. He cited alleged abuses including luxury lifestyles funded by public money, irregularities in Hambantota road projects, vehicle registration fraud noted in Auditor General reports, and payments for a non-functioning Colombo Municipal Council sewage project. He said the Government would protect honest public officers, pursue cases with evidence through the courts, and invited genuine support from the Opposition while rejecting efforts to shield wrongdoing.
- The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB
AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar argued during the debate on regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act that anti-corruption enforcement should prioritize recovering stolen public funds, not only arrests and prosecutions. He questioned accountability over alleged wasteful spending, unresolved issues concerning 323 containers, and claims of Governors engaging in partisan activity by pressuring opposition councillors. He also called for project decisions to be based on return-on-investment assessments, warning against debt-generating infrastructure, and said the Opposition would support legal amendments needed to recover proceeds of crime.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Krishnan Kalaichelvi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Ms.) Krishnan Kalaichelvi supported approving the Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act No. 9 of 2023, arguing that they are necessary to punish those responsible for bribery, corruption, and misuse of public funds. She said corruption had affected many sectors and levels of government, including local authorities, and linked the NPP’s electoral mandate to a public demand to investigate and prosecute “thieves.” She urged implementation of the Regulations to recover accountability across public institutions and stated that those accused of looting public money should be brought before the law.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri raised a procedural objection under Standing Order 23, arguing that Parliament should continue until the agreed adjournment time and that both Government and Opposition Members should receive their allotted speaking time. Speaking on Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, he questioned the Government’s anti-corruption stance, citing allegations over a cancelled 50 MW wind power tender, property valuation issues, and import-related decisions affecting sugar and salt. He also criticized alleged restrictions on independent media access and urged the Justice Minister to explain how the Regulations would be implemented in practice, stating that genuine anti-corruption measures would receive support.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala supported the regulations issued under the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, stating that aligned ministerial guidelines would strengthen enforcement and ensure accountability. He argued that opposition criticism reflected fear of anti-corruption action, cited recent allegations against government figures as smear campaigns, and said complaints and court processes should determine the facts. He emphasized that the regulations are intended to address white-collar corruption, including hidden assets, misuse of state funds, and laundering, with no exemption for any person.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala defended the Government against allegations of political vendetta, stating that anti-corruption actions are being pursued by independent institutions under the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, and related regulations. He said the Government had repeatedly received a public mandate to “catch thieves” and referred to former Ministers being in custody, court proceedings over the “Containers 323” matter, and claims regarding a North Central Provincial Council vehicle auction. He also questioned whether an alleged sale of a parliamentary seat would fall within the scope of the anti-corruption framework, and urged the Opposition to stop spreading false claims and maintain proper conduct in Parliament.
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri raised a Point of Order under Standing Order 91(c), objecting to what he described as an improper allegation made by the State Minister that appeared to implicate him. He denied the implication, noting he had resigned from the previous Parliament, and challenged the Government, the Minister of Public Security, and the Minister of Justice to prove within a week any allegation that he had taken a bribe.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof, speaking during the debate on regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, said governments must act on anti-corruption pledges and punish those who acquired unlawful wealth. He raised concern over a shooting involving fishermen in Kuchchaveli, Trincomalee, where a 23-year-old was injured, and questioned who authorized the Navy to open fire over an alleged breach of purse seine permit conditions. He argued that restrictions on “surukku valai” fishing are applied unevenly between districts, creating grievances, and urged a proper inquiry into the incident and the enforcement policy.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Sunil Watagala stated that he would inquire into the incident raised by another Member and report back to the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam raised a Point of Order objecting to receiving less speaking time than requested and asked for advance notice when time is curtailed. He then urged the Minister of Justice and National Integration to intervene over the Chemmani cemetery graves, stating that more than three skeletons had been found, the site lacked security, and available JMO funding was insufficient. He requested that the area be declared a potential mass grave site, protected from tampering, provided funds, and supported through international or institutional assistance, citing the 1996 Krishanti Kumaraswamy case and its allegations of mass burials in the area.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara acknowledged the matter raised by Hon. Ponnambalam and undertook to have it investigated immediately. He stated that the Ministry had allocated some funds and would consider further action if they were insufficient, with an update expected in a few days.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB
AI summary Hon. Mujibur Rahman supported an independent CIABOC under the Anti-Corruption Act regulations, while rejecting claims that anti-corruption action began only under the current Government and arguing that those who enabled past wrongdoers should also accept responsibility. He cited recent complaints against the current administration, including the 323 containers issue, the Mannar wind power project, a Presidential Secretariat vehicle auction, the STC salt matter, and a Sathosa audit tender, and questioned whether the law is being enforced equally. He emphasized the Auditor General’s role in supporting corruption investigations and challenged the President’s attempted appointment of an external nominee as Auditor General, urging that a qualified internal officer be appointed instead and warning against any effort to influence future audits.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Sunil Watagala rejected claims that no action had been taken in relation to a school incident handled by the Child and Women Abuse Prevention and Investigation Division. He stated that five statements had been recorded, police were involved, facts had been reported to court, and legal proceedings had commenced. He argued that inaccurate statements had unfairly placed the Minister in charge of Women and Children’s Affairs in a difficult position.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe denied Mujibur Rahman’s allegation that a Sathosa system audit tender had been awarded to a company linked to Presidential Advisor Duminda Hulugalle. He challenged Rahman to prove the claim, stating he would resign his ministerial post if it were true, and asked whether Rahman would resign his parliamentary seat if it were false.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahman invoked Standing Order 86 to clarify remarks he said had been misunderstood. He stated that in the school-related matter the mother had made several complaints but the police had not acted effectively, and added that Duminda Hulugalle had admitted on “Derana 360°” that the Sathosa tender came to him.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe rejected claims made in relation to “Derana 360°,” stating that Sathosa did not award a tender to E&Y because E&Y had withdrawn from the process. He urged accurate presentation of facts, after which the sitting proceeded with a procedural motion for Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara to take the Chair.
- The Hon. U.P. Abeywickrama, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary The remarks supported Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, describing them as part of the Government’s effort to strengthen institutions, the rule of law, and Sri Lanka’s compliance with international anti-corruption standards. Abeywickrama accused previous governments of normalizing corruption, waste, and political use of public resources, while asserting that the current administration is enabling investigations and prosecutions without political interference. He cited recent corruption-related arrests, tender manipulation cases, and clarifications on the “Containers 323” issue and a Government vehicle auction allegation to argue that Opposition claims against the Government were unfounded.
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka asked the Government to confirm whether two reported MoUs on an India–Sri Lanka electricity grid interconnection and a Trincomalee energy hub are genuine, and called for their disclosure if they are valid national agreements. While supporting regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act on recovering assets linked to false declarations, he argued that anti-corruption laws must be applied equally to the Government, Opposition and the public. He demanded updates or investigations into issues including the “323 containers” allegation, the use of “Dr.” before Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara’s name, alleged rice import fraud, and delays in connecting temple solar panels to the grid. He also objected to ministerial comments suggesting courts were not independent in the past, saying such remarks undermine judicial independence.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara made a brief metaphorical remark, stating that a fading clay lamp flickers most before going out. He used this image to suggest that the situation or conduct being referred to was a final display before decline or ending.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala stated that allegations regarding 323 containers are already under investigation following a citizen’s complaint to the CID. He said the Fort Magistrate had ordered a broad inquiry and directed media institutions to submit unedited video footage, arguing that claims that no action is being taken are false.
- The Hon. Fasmin Sharif JJB
AI summary Hon. Fasmin Sharif alleged that post-1978 Opposition politicians were linked to corruption and cited recent convictions in the carrom board case as evidence that the current Government will pursue accountability and not permit wrongdoing by anyone, including its own supporters. He called for justice for victims of communal violence in Kandy, Digana and Aluthgama, including a commission to investigate racist propaganda, and stated the Government supports Palestinians while rejecting terrorism. He also raised local governance issues in Gampola, urging that revenues from the Ambuluwawa area be brought under Government responsibility and that action be taken against illegal construction causing drainage and flooding problems.
Ethnic Reconciliation & DevolutionCorruption & Governance ReformJustice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam stated that Tamil people stand with Palestinians against genocide while distinguishing opposition to the Israeli Government’s actions from hostility to Jewish people. Speaking on Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, he argued that unsustainable State projects causing loss of national control constitute serious corruption and should be investigated, citing the Hambantota Harbour Project and its 99-year lease as a key example. He questioned what action the Government has taken on projects the JVP had previously described as sellouts, and urged the release of the Hambantota lease agreement, in consultation with the counterpart, for public scrutiny.
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam called for any agreement underlying the project in question to be released publicly, arguing that the Government’s decision to proceed despite apparent unsustainability required scrutiny of its motives. He framed the issue in the context of Sri Lanka’s strategic position and geopolitical competition, urging the Government to set a precedent against foreign pressure or influence by taking action on such agreements.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera JJB
AI summary Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera supported the Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, arguing that corruption by political leaders and public officials has been a central cause of Sri Lanka’s economic decline and loss of public trust. He cited definitions and indices on corruption, and referred to major infrastructure projects such as the Lotus Tower, Mattala Airport and Hambantota Port as examples of spending decisions allegedly shaped by commissions and political gain. He said the current Government was acting to address the legacy of corruption while also assisting poor communities through programmes such as housing support.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna stated that corruption was a major cause of Sri Lanka’s bankruptcy and said the Opposition would support genuine anti-corruption measures. He cautioned the Minister of Justice against commenting on court proceedings or implying government influence over judicial outcomes, arguing that such remarks undermine institutional confidence. He urged the Government to focus on expediting long-delayed court cases through procedural and legal reforms, strengthening independent institutions, and refiling or pursuing past corruption cases, including major projects from the Rajapaksa era, without political vendettas.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara discussed regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, arguing that while anti-corruption enforcement is necessary, allegations involving the current Government also require investigation. He cited the release of 323 containers, rice procurement, renewable energy purchases, and salary or allowance transfers to party accounts, questioning whether similar conduct is being treated consistently under anti-corruption and parliamentary conduct rules. He also criticised what he described as inaccurate public claims by Government figures and warned against statements that could imply political influence over the judiciary.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Najith Indika (Medical Practitioner) JJB
AI summary Najith Indika supported the adoption of Regulations under the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, placing them alongside the Proceeds of Crime Recovery law and amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure as part of the Government’s anti-corruption programme. He argued that corruption had been normalised in politics, said the current administration was pursuing cases through proper institutional and legal processes rather than political pressure, and cited recent prosecutions and past public anti-corruption efforts by NPP figures. He also referred to the NPP’s local government election results and accused sections of the Opposition of spreading false claims and failing to accept the Government’s mandate.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper supported the Anti-Corruption Act Regulations and urged the Government to expedite the centralized electronic system for asset declarations under Section 87, to avoid reliance on physical storage of forms. He also used the debate to condemn the reported killing of Palestinian civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in Gaza on 3 June 2025, calling for Sri Lanka and others to speak against indiscriminate attacks on civilians, particularly children.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara cited the parliamentary Code of Conduct approved on 7 March 2018, specifically the clause prohibiting the use of public funds, property, or facilities for party political activities unless allowed by law. He argued that salaries paid from public funds, including the Consolidated Fund, should not be used for party purposes and urged the Deputy Minister to read the provision.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala disputed allegations made against his party regarding members’ contributions, stating that any contributions are made to a public party fund. He rejected claims involving Rs. 80,000 as false and argued that references to the Parliament (Powers and Privileges) Act and the Code of Conduct do not align with his party’s actual practice.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti - Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Handunnetti supported the Anti-Corruption Act regulations, linking them to the Government’s stated effort to enforce the law and address past corruption. He cited the arrival of a new SriLankan Airlines Airbus as evidence of recovery after alleged mismanagement of the airline and criticised previous administrations over the Airbus deal and attempts to privatize or devalue the airline. He defended the Justice Minister and anti-corruption institutions against Opposition criticism, referred to complaints and alleged rackets involving sugar tax, onion imports, rice, minerals, expressways and public funds, and said investigations and prosecutions should proceed. He also announced plans for a transparent minerals investment process and a digital valuation app for gems and jewellery to improve public access and reduce opportunities for bribery.
- Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake argued that the current government has restored public trust by creating a corruption-free administration, citing anti-bribery measures at the Ministry of Industries and increased investor confidence. He said foreign direct investment had reached USD 650 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared with USD 483 million in 2023 and USD 724 million in 2024, and linked this to higher tax compliance and export income. He called for legal action over past corruption and alleged crimes, including the bond scam, cases involving the Rajapaksa administration, killings such as those of Wasim Thajudeen and Lasantha Wickrematunge, and the Easter Sunday attacks.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary Moved the adjournment of Parliament. The motion that “Parliament do now adjourn” was proposed.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech →
- 9 Adjournment Adjournment Questions: Tax Revenue and Decentralized Budget Provisions 26 speeches