Sitting of Saturday, 15 November 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 22870 ·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 Opening: Parliament Procedures, Staff Lists, and Administrative Information 30 speeches
- 2 Opening Opening: Parliament Meeting and Auditor-General's Report Presentation 3 speeches
- 3 Papers Papers Presented: Draft Budget Estimates Alterations 2026 1 speeches
- 4 Petitions Petitions: Citizens' Petitions 2 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: Finance Question 20/2024 (1) and 119/2024 (1) - Stand Down Requests and Point of Order 11 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question: Q.562/2025 - Lands Belonging to Sri Lanka Railways: Lease 19 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Question: Q.345/2024 (1) - Housing Question (Stand Down) 3 speeches
- 8 Procedural Privilege Matter: Reference by Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar and Main Business Announcement 2 speeches
- 9 Debate Debate: Committee Stage - Appropriation Bill 2026, Special Spending Units (Heads 1, 2, 4-11, 13, 16-25) 104 speeches
- The Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning JJB
AI summary On behalf of the Minister of Finance, the Minister moved procedurally to postpone consideration of Clauses 2 to 10 until after the Schedules were considered. The Committee then proceeded to the First Schedule, beginning with the allocation for Head 1, His Excellency the President, under Operational Activities recurrent expenditure of Rs. 2,465,980,000.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara moved the traditional Rs. 10 reduction under the Committee Stage for specified Heads of the Appropriation Bill 2026, while welcoming increased relief for Malaiyaha people and supporting related allocations. He argued that profitable plantation companies should contribute more towards workers and called for a uniform policy covering all companies and small estates rather than ad-hoc benefits. He also urged the Government to appoint a Special Parliamentary Committee on Provincial Councils and electoral reform, noting ITAK’s abstention over unresolved Tamil political concerns and referencing a gazetted Provincial Councils Elections (Amendment) Bill.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary The Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government has prepared a proposal to establish a Special Parliamentary Committee on Provincial Councils and elections. It will be presented on the Ministry’s Head day for further parliamentary action.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara urged the Government to resolve the legal basis for holding Provincial Council elections, arguing that delays have left provinces administered by Governors and officials without elected representatives. He questioned the proposed Rs. 12 billion Presidential expenditure for 2026, called for moderation in presidential security arrangements, and criticised past rhetoric on such costs. He sought greater transparency in the Digital Economy, Digital ID, GovPay/HelaPay and India-Sri Lanka digital cooperation initiatives, including tabling agreements, procurement details and technical frameworks in Parliament with trilingual public communication. He also raised concerns about Parliament staff allowances and pay restructuring, Opposition speaking time, equitable overseas delegation representation, and the autonomy of parliamentary administration.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister of Justice and National Integration stated that the Judicial Service Commission and the Chief Justice were not present to respond to allegations made in the debate. He said that around twenty removals had taken place only after investigations and were not reprisals, and cautioned that contrary assertions could undermine the perceived independence of the JSC and the Chief Justice.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara stated that if due process had been followed, the relevant procedures and outcomes should be tabled in Parliament. He requested this information to enable Members to verify and be satisfied with the process.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake raised a Point of Order citing Standing Order 83(1) and (2), arguing that the personal conduct of judges of superior courts cannot be discussed except through a substantive motion. He referred to a 1958 Speaker’s ruling to support the position that even indirect references to courts or judges are out of order, and suggested using relevant case numbers instead of naming judges where necessary. He requested the Chair to ensure the Standing Orders are applied rather than allowing discussion based on personal preference.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara said he had complied with Standing Order 83(1) and argued that any process affecting judges should observe fairness, natural justice and a proper inquiry, without referring to personal conduct or defending any individual. He cautioned that judicial removals and restorations have occurred under different administrations and stressed the need for consistent lawful procedure. He also urged that the Speaker not relinquish the gazetted official residence allocated under the Establishments Code, and thanked retiring Parliamentary security officer Mr. Ranasinghe for 33 years of service.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister said the Special Expenditure Units reflect the Government’s approach to governance, institutional stability and leadership, rather than only budgetary allocations. She argued that the Government is united by a shared political purpose and party discipline, while responding to Opposition criticism as inconsistent and lacking a coherent policy line. She rejected claims that the Government had adopted neoliberal policies, citing state intervention such as measures to increase plantation workers’ wages within a disciplined fiscal framework. She said the 2026 Budget and related expenditure decisions demonstrate policy continuity, collective leadership and the protection of institutional independence.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Sajith Premadasa argued that the Government had failed to implement election pledges, including permanent appointments for teacher instructors, changes to the IMF Debt Sustainability Analysis, graduate employment commitments, and justice for the Easter Sunday attacks. He called for urgent action on distressed MSMEs, citing high closures, non-performing loans, parate executions, inadequate restructuring mechanisms, weak use of ADB credit support, and the impact of lowering the VAT registration threshold. He also urged a coherent national pension programme, restoration of promised senior citizens’ savings benefits, settlement of pension anomalies and arrears for retirees, and resolution of unresolved salary and pension issues affecting retired teachers and principals.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake requested that a member be allotted 10 minutes to speak. The intervention concerned the allocation of speaking time in the parliamentary proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake indicated that 10 minutes would be allocated to Hon. Gayantha, repeating the decision on speaking time.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sajith Premadasa SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa urged the Government to honour pre-election commitments to resolve long-standing pension anomalies affecting retired teachers and principals, noting related court proceedings and union involvement. He argued that revenue and primary balance outcomes exceeding IMF targets had created fiscal space that should be redirected to poverty reduction, MSME revival, start-ups, and support for farmers, fishers, workers, the self-employed, and women. He also called for an investigation into alleged harassment of the Chairperson of the Aratchchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha and warned that macro-linked bonds in the debt restructuring could increase future debt service as growth improves. He further alleged politicization of the “Community Power” programme and related local structures, questioning whether this was consistent with the Government’s promised system change.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Minister Ananda Wijepala responded to opposition criticisms of the President’s Vote, stating that the 2025 and 2026 allocations are substantially lower than under the previous administration and are directed mainly to the Clean Sri Lanka programme, research and salaries. He said the Presidential Secretariat had reduced staff, advisers, vehicles, travel, buildings and other recurrent costs while maintaining efficiency, and cited significant savings compared with 2024. He also highlighted the decentralisation of the President’s Fund to Divisional Secretariats, increased medical and educational assistance, and 52 Clean Sri Lanka projects, asserting that funds under the President’s Head are not used for personal purposes.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan addressed the expenditure heads relating to the presidency, prime minister’s office and independent commissions, arguing that both the executive presidency and earlier parliamentary systems had failed to resolve corruption, economic mismanagement, crime and the national question. He welcomed some current government action against the underworld, narcotics and corruption, but urged repeal or reform of the PTA, accountability for wartime abuses and disappearances, truth and remedies for victims, and a just political solution. He cited several killings, abductions and disappearances involving academics, journalists, politicians, teachers and children, demanding investigations, prosecutions and convictions regardless of ethnicity or status. He also criticised the composition of the Archaeological Advisory Committee, calling for representation reflecting Sri Lanka’s multi-ethnic society.
Ethnic Reconciliation & DevolutionJustice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that membership of the Archaeological Advisory Committee was not selected on ethnic lines, but included three scholars from the relevant backgrounds to his recollection. He said many scholars were reluctant to serve because of past negative experiences, and that Minister Ramalingam Chandraseker had worked to secure their participation. He invited proposals to add more suitable members if possible.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Welcoming assurances on minority inclusion, the Member warned against establishing religious sites in areas where the relevant community does not reside, citing plans for a Buddhist worship site and vihara at Nediyakalmalai near Batticaloa border villages as a source of local suspicion and potential conflict. He alleged that related road works, Forest Department land releases, and confiscation of Tamil farmlands were undermining reconciliation. He said his side abstained on the Budget because, despite some positive measures, it did not address the national question and maintained high Defence allocations in peacetime. He urged the Government to include a just political solution and development of war-affected areas in the next Budget, noting a forthcoming meeting with the President.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister said the Budget allocates funds for islandwide development, including roads, hospitals, schools and housing in the North and East, with a special housing project for 2,500 families affected by the war. He addressed pension issues, stating that a pending court case concerns teachers’ pension rights linked to the 1997 B.C. Perera Pay Commission and that the 2025 and 2026 Budget measures, including a new Pay Commission, aim to resolve pension and salary anomalies. He rejected opposition claims of politicization in community programmes and defended the VAT threshold reduction as a compliance measure targeting evasion within the value chain. He also said the Government is regularizing pension rights for public servants recruited since 2016, arguing that the previous contributory pension clauses were never operationalized.
- Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe said public service recruitment, largely halted since 2019, is being restarted to address an estimated 280,000 vacancies, with Cabinet approval already granted for 75,000 posts and a committee chaired by the Prime Minister’s Secretary assessing further recruitment needs. He said around 25,000 Development Officers currently teaching in schools could be recruited to the teacher service through the competitive examination process once pending litigation is resolved, contributing to over 100,000 approved recruitments, including about 30,000 teacher posts. He defended the Budget as people-centred and development-oriented, citing measures such as the Rs. 1,750 estate worker wage target and a Rs. 400 allowance supported by the Government and estate owners. He also began to raise issues concerning the role, accountability, and functioning of Presidential and Independent Commissions in public service delivery.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala SJB
AI summary Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala argued that Independent Commissions must be preserved to protect democracy and citizens’ rights, particularly in the context of Budget allocations for key constitutional offices and institutions. He criticized reported moves to return police transfer and promotion powers from the National Police Commission to the IGP, saying any inefficiency should be addressed through resources and staffing rather than reducing Commission powers. He also accused the Government of shifting from its previous support for independent institutions after coming to power, while acknowledging public expectations for higher standards, reduced waste, and anti-corruption measures.
- The Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala SJB
AI summary Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala urged the Government to hold postponed Provincial Council elections and correct electoral and delimitation issues, stating that the Opposition would support reforms, including a return to the previous system if proposed. He criticized the allocation of funds through the Finance Commission in the absence of Provincial Councils and said delays in elections were wrong under both the previous and current administrations. He also raised concerns under Parliament’s Head of Expenditure, calling for reinstatement of the long-standing leave allowance for parliamentary staff and improved salary structures and promotion pathways for administrative officers serving Parliament and committees such as COPE, COPA and Sectoral Oversight Committees.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran was recognized by the Deputy Chairperson and allocated 14 minutes to speak. The intervention is procedural and contains no substantive policy argument or proposal.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran JJB
AI summary Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran defended the Government’s conduct and the JVP’s political culture while criticising Opposition parties over alleged corruption, wasteful spending, and misuse of parliamentary time. During the Committee Stage debate on expenditure heads, he argued that public funds allocated to Parliament and the Presidency must be used responsibly, citing reduced Presidential expenditure and foreign travel costs under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake compared with previous administrations. He also highlighted the expansion of Presidential Fund services to all 341 Divisional Secretariats through a digital process to improve public access outside Colombo.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran JJB
AI summary Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran stated that allocations under the President’s Head cover the Clean Sri Lanka Program, Poverty Alleviation Program, and Digital Sri Lanka initiative, which are intended to deliver development benefits to the public. He said the Government operates without discrimination based on race or language and expressed confidence that the policy targets would be achieved within five years.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized Hon. Chanaka Sampath Madugoda and allotted him 20 minutes to speak. The intervention was a procedural allocation of speaking time during the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Chanaka Madugoda questioned increased allocations under the President’s and Parliament’s Heads in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, arguing that they conflict with government pledges to abolish the Executive Presidency, reduce presidential expenditure, and cut parliamentary privileges. He said the Clean Sri Lanka programme had not produced visible islandwide results despite its 2025 allocation and urged the Government to make it effective in 2026 without excessive political branding. He also acknowledged the work of the Presidential Fund and requested expanded support for medical assistance, overseas treatment, scholarships, and school sports teams representing Sri Lanka abroad.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Chanaka Madugoda criticized the Government’s 2025 Budget implementation, stating that physical progress remained low despite only two months left in the year. He urged the Government to recognize public dissatisfaction and improve performance in 2026, concluding with a Buddhist saying to suggest the Government was failing to understand actual conditions.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law – Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister warned that political outcomes can be unpredictable, citing the experience of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and others who were forced to seek refuge or leave the country. He used the example to caution that anticipated developments may not occur and unforeseen events can change political circumstances.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that an incident had occurred involving an Opposition Member of Parliament. The remark appears to reference the treatment or experience of an Opposition MP, but no further details, proposals, or demands are provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law – Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister rejected claims that the Government is undermining Independent Commissions, stating that the Judicial Service Commission operates independently under Article 111C(1) of the Constitution and that interference with its decisions is a criminal offence. He criticized allegations about unfair disciplinary action against judges and judicial officers, listing recent interdictions, retirements, dismissals, resignations and other measures which he said followed lawful inquiries. He linked the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme to broader institutional discipline, anti-drug efforts and curbing illicit liquor, while stressing that the Government does not interfere with the JSC. On the Budget, he argued that the Government’s focus is fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability, citing World Bank comments, improved sovereign ratings and recent growth figures as evidence of economic stabilization and restored investor confidence.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that unprecedented events are now taking place. The remark was brief and did not specify the events, policies, or legislation being referenced.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law – Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary Harshana Nanayakkara rejected Opposition criticism of the President’s foreign relations, citing state visits to India, China, the UAE and other countries in 2024-2025 and listing resulting grants and assistance from JICA, ADB, India and Japan for health, housing and anti-corruption initiatives. He argued that the Government has reduced expenditure in the President’s Office, including recurrent costs, advisory and personal staff expenses, travel, general administration and benefits to former Presidents. He said the Budget would be implemented responsibly and asked the Opposition to correct the Government where necessary but refrain from using parliamentary privilege to spread falsehoods, briefly noting attacks on CIABOC as corruption cases proceed.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera was recognized by the Deputy Chairperson and allotted 20 minutes to speak. No substantive remarks or policy points were made in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera argued that Parliament has underperformed in its core lawmaking role, noting that none of the 11 Bills proposed in the previous Budget had been passed and urging a renewed focus on legislation and constitutional reform with expert support. He defended the role of Independent Commissions as safeguards against excessive executive power while acknowledging that they must operate within constitutional and statutory limits. He called on the Committee on Parliamentary Business, under Standing Order 126, to examine the annual reports of Article 41B Commissions, assess their performance and legality, summon officials where necessary, and inform the public if reports have not been submitted.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera argued that Parliament should protect the independence of Independent Commissions and exercise its oversight powers under Standing Orders 126(1)-(3) rather than relying on public criticism of their performance. He focused on the Ombudsman established under Article 156 of the Constitution, stating that low public use, delays, and non-compliance with recommendations have weakened the office, and called for public awareness, adequate facilities, and stronger effect for its determinations. He also began to raise concerns regarding the Human Rights Commission, noting its statutory independence and the current role of the Supreme Court in fundamental rights jurisdiction.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe to speak and informed him that he had 15 minutes allotted.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala’s intervention contains only a formal address to the Chair and no substantive remarks, proposals, questions, or policy positions are recorded in the provided text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized or called upon the Deputy Minister to speak. No substantive policy remarks, questions, or proposals were made in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala responded to Hon. Ajith P. Perera’s comments on the Ombudsman and the Human Rights Commission, noting that these bodies do not exercise judicial power and that the Government supports making them more efficient. He rejected any implication that the implementation of Ombudsman recommendations weakened after the current Government took office, while accepting the broader need for institutional improvement.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera argued that constitutionally independent institutions have weakened over the past decade due to insufficient administrative oversight. He called on the Committee on Constitutional Affairs and Parliament to carry out the necessary review.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe to begin his speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe used the Budget Committee Stage debate to urge the Government to address the ethnic question, fully implement the 13th Amendment as promised, and avoid repeating what he described as past failures by successive Presidents. He called for the immediate repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, citing recent arrests of two Muslim youths under the law, and requested that the President convene a special meeting to secure the release of confiscated copies of the Holy Qur’an held by Customs. He also referred to grievances faced by the Muslim community under the previous administration, including forced cremations, and tabled a letter signed by 22 Muslim MPs seeking action on the Qur’an issue.
- The Hon. Muneer Mulaffer - Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary Raised a point of order to clarify that Muslim representatives have been appointed in relation to the Department of Archaeology, naming Prof. Hussainmiya of South Eastern University and Prof. Farzana Haniffa of the University of Colombo. He added that suitable and qualified persons would also be selected and appointed to other committees.
- The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary M.S. Uthumalebbe requested the Deputy Minister to ensure equal Muslim representation across all committees. He also extended support and good wishes for the Deputy Minister’s other initiatives.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala clarified that the Government had not acted improperly regarding former High Court Judge Ilanchezian’s service extension. He stated that extensions require recommendations from the President of the Court of Appeal and the Chief Justice, and that no such recommendations had been received when the judge reached retirement age.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna rose on a point of order. No substantive issue or argument was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson asked the Member to state the point of order and reminded the House that a debate could not be opened under that procedure.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna raised a procedural objection under Standing Order 92(2)(a), asking which Standing Order permitted the Deputy Minister to be given the floor. He stated that he did not oppose the Deputy Minister speaking, but requested equal opportunity for opposition members to respond.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Hon. Deputy Chairperson stated that the member had been given time to make a clarification. No substantive policy position, proposal, or question was raised.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna objected to a Deputy Minister making a clarification in the chamber and questioned the procedural basis for allowing it. He demanded that the relevant Standing Order permitting such a clarification be identified.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar was recognized by the Deputy Chairperson and allotted 20 minutes to speak. No substantive remarks or policy positions were presented in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar briefly addressed the Committee Stage debate on the Budget, indicating that he wished to make remarks. The excerpt contains no substantive policy points, proposals, or questions before an interruption.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary M.S. Uthumalebbe challenged the Deputy Minister’s statement that the judge had not notified the authorities, citing Justice Ilanchezian’s public claim that he personally sent four registered letters to the President without receiving a response. The intervention sought clarification on the discrepancy regarding communication between the judge and the President.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar defended the Government’s allocations and appointments, saying Muslim representation is being included in relevant institutions, including the Archaeology Advisory Committee, and rejecting allegations concerning retired Judge Ilanchezian. He argued that the Government has a mandate to change political culture, end discrimination and ethnic or religious division, and build unity after decades of conflict and communal politics. He cited continuing post-war hardships in the Northern Province, including widows, orphaned children, housing shortages, debt and poverty, and said increased allocations to Jaffna aim to support recovery and national unity. He also announced plans to celebrate “Sri Lankans’ Day” in December as a national unity initiative across communities, religions, arts and culture.
Corruption & Governance ReformJustice & Human RightsEthnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary The debate addressed the President’s Head of Expenditure and related institutional heads, with emphasis on maintaining the independence and strength of the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe raised concerns over cuts to parliamentary staff allowances and requested that the relevant committee report be reconsidered with staff input. He criticised what he described as changes in the President’s and Prime Minister’s earlier positions on security, official vehicles and education funding, and questioned the scale and cost of current security arrangements. He also argued that recent growth figures may be influenced by vehicle imports rather than production-led expansion, and called for stronger allocations and policies to raise genuine economic growth.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha JJB
AI summary Mrs. Samanmali Gunasingha corrected claims that the Moratuwa Municipal Council Budget had been defeated, stating that the reported defeats related instead to some Pradeshiya Sabhas and cooperative society elections. She addressed allegations regarding insults to women MPs, saying such grievances could be raised with the Speaker or Women’s Caucus, and emphasized the need to treat women parliamentarians with dignity irrespective of party. During the debate on expenditure heads including the President, Prime Minister, Parliament and commissions, she noted that costs for the newly established National Women’s Commission fall under the Presidential Secretariat. She defended the Prime Minister’s Office against allegations, arguing that it operates modestly and has a role in coordinating and guiding government policy implementation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chithral Fernando, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Chithral Fernando criticized the increase in the President’s expenditure head, arguing that it contradicted earlier pledges to cut presidential expenses and calling for clarity on whether spending has been centralized under the President at the expense of the Prime Minister’s Office. He said the Opposition did not object to necessary security for the President or Prime Minister, but questioned the Government’s change in position from its earlier statements on reducing such arrangements. He also demanded transparency from the Presidential Media Division under the RTI Act, including details of staff, appointments, salaries, allowances, vehicles and fuel, and warned against using broadband vouchers or the Rs. 25 billion “Praja Shakthi” programme for partisan activity. He further objected to disparaging remarks about Aswesuma beneficiaries and noted concerns about targeting errors in the welfare scheme.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha JJB
AI summary The Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha acknowledged concerns about alleged hurtful or unnecessary conduct by a Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman toward a woman member. She stated that if the member had suffered distress, regret would be expressed and appropriate action would be taken.
- The Hon. Chithral Fernando, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary The Hon. Chithral Fernando called for the Prime Minister to make a statement on remarks concerning the verbal subjugation of women. He linked the issue to her planned participation in a global women leaders’ forum and urged those promoting women’s emancipation to address the matter publicly in Aratchikattuwa with the relevant Chairman present.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa thanked parliamentary staff and support services for their work during two Budget processes in 2025, and rejected Opposition claims on legislative output by arguing that the Government had passed 22 laws in its first year, more than comparable post-election years since 2000. He called for independent commissions to support governance needs without creating administrative delays, citing stalled Health sector appointments and the need for timely Police transfers in anti-narcotics and anti-underworld operations. He also said pharmaceutical procurement requires flexibility because medicines have long lead times, and defended reduced Presidential expenditure, fewer advisers serving voluntarily, the absence of State Ministers, and new restrictions on ministerial facilities.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman criticised the Government’s claims of good governance, alleging that individuals associated with previous administrations and controversial decisions have been retained as advisers or senior officials. He questioned delays in CIABOC action, the failure to establish a promised Select Committee on the release of 309 Customs containers, and the extension granted to the former Customs Director General despite findings in a presidential committee report. He also challenged refusals of RTI requests by the Presidential Media Division on national security grounds and cited the Government’s earlier allegations over bar permits, noting that the Treasury Secretary had informed the Supreme Court the permits were lawful.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary The Minister distinguished between two stages in issuing bar licences: selecting prospective applicants and processing submitted applications under existing regulations. He said the Treasury Secretary’s statement to court related only to the legality of the second-stage administrative processing, while the Government’s concern is the initial selection of applicants. He stated that this selection process remains under scrutiny and further details would be disclosed later.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Hon. Mujibur Rahuman asked the Minister to provide the names of politicians alleged to have influenced the applicants listed. He requested that this additional list be tabled in Parliament.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary The Minister said inquiries are ongoing into cases where persons in power allegedly used security personnel, relatives, or domestic staff to act on their behalf, including in the North. He noted that identifying the political principals takes time and urged Members to provide any relevant information to support the investigations rather than expect immediate admissions from offenders.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary During a brief intervention in the month of Karthikai, Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna paid tribute to Tamil martyrs and those who died in the struggle associated with Tamil Eelam. He recited commemorative verses honouring their sacrifice, courage, and role in shaping Tamil identity and remembrance.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna said he voted against the Budget’s Second Reading because the Government had failed to fulfil pledges on releasing political prisoners and repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act. He raised grievances relating to the Northern Province, including unemployed graduates, fishermen’s difficulties, Provincial Council politics, halted excavations, and the non-release of civilian lands in Palaly despite airport expansion plans. He also criticised the proposed Rs. 200 wage increase for estate workers as inadequate in light of living costs, and said Hill Country workers had long been neglected by their representatives.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Darmapriya Wijesinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Darmapriya Wijesinghe raised a Point of Order responding to an earlier allegation by Hon. Sujeewa Senasinghe that the Speaker’s Secretary had insulted a female Receptionist in the Parliamentary Department of Security. He tabled and read a departmental letter signed by eleven officials denying that any such incident or complaint had occurred. He requested an immediate inquiry, citing the seriousness of the allegation involving the Speaker’s office.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah thanked the President and Health Minister for approving the upgrade of Puttalam Base Hospital to a District General Hospital, following his request during the Committee Stage debate. He expressed support for the President’s anti-narcotics programme led through the President’s Office with the security forces, and requested attention to the absence of a Muslim Cabinet minister. He also urged the President to hold development discussions in war- and disaster-affected Batticaloa, and called for Muslim and Tamil representation on the archaeology-related body recently appointed by gazette, citing land concerns in the Eastern and Northern Provinces.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake responded to claims that no Tamil or Muslim experts had been appointed to the Archaeology Advisory Committee, stating that scholars from Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities are represented. He named Prof. V. Maheshwaran, Prof. B.A. Hussenmia and Mr. Ratna Chelupillai Mayuranandan among the appointees, and said the relevant Minister had indicated that two additional special expert committees are expected to be appointed.
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah welcomed the inclusion of Muslim and Tamil intellectuals in public processes and said solutions should involve all communities. Referring to the President’s statement that Treasury funds had allegedly been provided to extremist groups, including groups using Muslim names, he called for an immediate investigation and a special commission to identify those responsible and take action. He argued that such groups had harmed the Muslim community economically, socially and personally, and said continuing issues such as restrictions on Quran translations and Muslim women’s attire should be addressed to remove the stigma placed on Muslims.
Ethnic Reconciliation & DevolutionJustice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Riyas Farook JJB
AI summary Hon. Riyas Farook rejected claims that the government had failed to appoint Muslims to Cabinet or other positions, arguing that appointments were made without regard to ethnicity or religion and according to suitability. He criticized past Muslim political representatives for using Muslim voters’ support to bargain for ministries and posts, and accused Hon. Hizbullah of politicizing claims about achievements secured through discussions with the President.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Gayan Janaka JJB
AI summary Hon. Gayan Janaka argued that the Prime Minister’s Office exemplifies the government’s “new political culture” through reduced expenditure and stricter financial control. He cited reductions in the PMO Programme allocation from Rs. 630.83 million in 2024 to about Rs. 349 million in 2026, the disposal and reallocation of vehicles, lower fuel, maintenance, stationery and communication costs, and the return of 258 security officers to regular Police duties. He stated that these measures show more careful use of public funds while maintaining institutional functions.
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan raised concerns about continued police and intelligence actions against Tamil representatives and activists, citing a Kilinochchi court case over commemorative activities and an alleged intimidation incident in Ampara where police reportedly refused to record complaints. He argued that people should be able to remember deceased relatives under transitional justice principles and said the security environment remains unsafe for youth. He also referred to letters sent to the President seeking the release of military-held land, particularly the Theraavai Maaveerar Thuyilum Illam and Kilinochchi Maha Vidyalayam land, and stated that he had received no response.
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof called for provincial-level offices for the Bribery Commission, proper follow-up on corruption complaints, stronger implementation of Human Rights Commission recommendations, broader service representation in the Public Service Commission, and measures to reduce court delays. He urged reform of the local government electoral system and said any new delimitation for Provincial Council elections should include minority representation, particularly Muslims from the Eastern Province, to ensure locally informed boundaries. Citing disparities in ward and member allocations in Trincomalee local authorities, he argued for a fairer system and stated the Opposition would support necessary reforms. He also alleged improper political involvement in Kachcheri and Divisional Secretariat administration in Trincomalee and called for corrective action.
Justice & Human RightsCorruption & Governance ReformEthnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake said President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected by all communities and that the Cabinet collectively represents and safeguards the rights of Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, Burghers and Malays. He argued that future leadership should emerge regardless of ethnicity or gender, and told Hon. Imran that many of his aspirations may be realised in this or the next Parliament. Referring to the expenditure heads for the President’s Office, the Leader of the House’s Office and Parliament, he said the Government has a mandate to reduce privileges, forego perks and remove unnecessary facilities.
- Mr. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake outlined expenditure reductions in the Office of the Leader of the House, citing savings in 2024 and 2025 allocations and additional revenue from selling two official vehicles above valuation under the Government’s policy on disposing of luxury state vehicles. He said the offices of the Leader of the House, Chief Government Whip and Leader of the Opposition carry significant parliamentary workload, but have avoided unnecessary recruitment and controlled staff costs despite salary increases. He also questioned the distribution and usefulness of overseas travel opportunities within Parliament, noting that an officer from the Leader of the House’s office was sent abroad for the first time and urging the Chair to intervene to ensure fairer and more productive use of such opportunities.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake requested that his allotted speaking time be extended from 15 minutes to 20 minutes, stating that he had originally been given 20 minutes but it had been reduced.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Members voiced assent, after which the matter was considered further in Committee. The Speaker was in the Chair during the proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake said concerns about alleged injustice to parliamentary staff predated the current process and included representations made in 2022 regarding the removal of the Chief Officer post from the executive level. He questioned the propriety of an earlier one-person restructuring committee led by an officer who had himself raised grievances and was linked to related litigation, noting that about Rs. 2 million had been paid for that work. He stated that the Staff Advisory Committee instead appointed a three-member panel of senior public administrators on 27 February 2025, with broad participation including the Opposition, to review the staff structure in line with government circulars.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary A procedural motion was moved for the Committee to report progress and seek leave to sit again. The motion was agreed to, and the Committee reported progress with proceedings scheduled to resume on Monday, 17 November 2025.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech →
- 10 Procedural Closing: Committee Report and Parliamentary Adjournment 3 speeches