Sitting of Friday, 10 April 2026
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 23479 ·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 of Parliament 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers Presented and Committee Reports 4 speeches
- 3 Committee report Sectoral Oversight Committee Reports on Health, Mass Media and Women's Empowerment 1 speeches
- 4 Petitions Citizens' Petitions 4 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: Non-Academic Staff of State Universities (Q.25/2024) 2 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Questions: Multiple Questions in First Round (Q.2, Q.3, Q.4 and others) 5 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Questions: Second Round and Supplementary Questions 10 speeches
- 8 Procedural Private Notice Questions and Procedural Matters 14 speeches
- 9 Procedural Order of Business Motions and Agenda Setting 2 speeches
- 10 Debate Debate: No-Confidence Motion Against Minister of Energy (Hon. Kumara Jayakody) 184 speeches
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera moved a no-confidence motion against Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, alleging breaches of the parliamentary Code of Conduct, failure to meet constitutional and ministerial duties, and mishandling of coal procurement for the Norochcholai power plant. He cited PUCSL findings of substandard coal from nine vessels causing an estimated Rs. 8.49 billion loss and an Auditor General’s report that found flaws in the tender process and supplier selection. He also argued that the Minister’s indictment in the High Court under the Bribery Act for alleged corruption in a previous procurement role made his continued Cabinet tenure incompatible with public trust, good governance, and the Government’s anti-corruption mandate.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera alleged that a Minister facing corruption allegations over a coal tender was being protected by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake despite his previous anti-corruption stance. He claimed the tender-winning company, Trident Chemphar Limited, and its representatives had serious corruption-related records, and said the resignation letters of the Lanka Coal Company Chairman warning of irregularities were suppressed and replaced with a health-related resignation. He argued that these circumstances required an inquiry and made the Minister unfit to remain in office, and also accused the Minister of undermining solar power despite its significant contribution to national electricity generation.
- Mr. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB
AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar seconded the No-Confidence Motion against Minister Punith Kumara Jayakody, alleging large-scale misuse and losses in coal procurement and citing findings attributed to the Auditor General’s Report. He argued that tender conditions and timelines were deliberately altered to favour an unqualified supplier, that the award proceeded without proper Attorney General concurrence, and that substandard coal shipments were accepted despite failed calorific value tests. He also criticised the President and Government for protecting the Minister, claiming the procurement failures contributed to financial loss, power cuts, and electricity tariff increases.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary Minister Nalinda Jayatissa rejected the No-Confidence Motion’s allegations on coal procurement, arguing that longstanding irregularities predated the current Government and that the present process registered suppliers, invited bids, allowed appeals, and awarded the tender to the lowest evaluated bidder without ministerial interference. He said changes to prequalification criteria were made in 2023 before the current administration, and no party challenged the award before the Procurement Appeals Board. He emphasized that the Government is now using both Load Port and Discharge Port reports from accredited laboratories to test coal quality, unlike earlier practices that relied mainly on Load Port reports, and is investigating discrepancies while pursuing penalties for deviations in calorific value, ash, sulphur and moisture.
- Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam said his party initially did not sponsor the No-Confidence Motion against the Minister of Power because related matters were before COPE and the Colombo High Court, but the National Audit Office report required Parliament to take a position. He cited alleged procurement irregularities in the 2025/2026 LCC coal tender, including unregistered suppliers, relaxed criteria, reduced bid periods, lapsed testing accreditation, substandard coal, reduced Norochcholai output, and estimated losses of Rs. 2,237.7 million. He argued that the issue concerns ministerial ethics, public trust, and good governance, and called on the Minister to resign or step aside while court proceedings and accountability processes continue.
- The Hon. R.M. Ranjith Madduma Bandara SJB
AI summary R.M. Ranjith Madduma Bandara alleged major fraud in a coal procurement process, citing the Auditor General’s report and claiming losses of about Rs. 30 billion due to poor-quality coal, irregular tender conditions, registration issues, and altered bid quantities. He questioned why the LCC Chairman resigned, why the Minister travelled to Russia, and why coal samples were tested in Indonesia, and argued that the government was protecting the Minister despite pending legal issues. He contrasted these allegations with the government’s anti-corruption mandate, called for investigations into past scandals including the bond issue, and accused the government of delaying elections and shielding allies.
- The Hon. Ravindra Bandara
AI summary Hon. Ravindra Bandara rejected Opposition claims of a “coal scam,” arguing that the Attorney General’s report shows the supplier met the registration requirement before bid submission and that any shortfall in the registration fee was a bank processing issue later settled. He said the Government was not defending any company but due process, and called for scrutiny of historical coal procurement irregularities, including past cargo deviations, penalties and alleged tender bypassing. He also defended the Government’s renewable energy record, citing an increase of about 1,000 MW in renewable capacity from 2024 to 2025, while noting plans for batteries, pumped storage and grid-stability measures. He urged that all coal shipments, past and present, be investigated, penalties recovered where applicable, and systems corrected to avoid public losses and power cuts.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Chithral Fernando, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Chithral Fernando argued that the no-confidence motion was intended to challenge alleged wrongdoing in coal procurement, not merely to test parliamentary numbers. He said the Government had moved from denying problems to admitting the coal was substandard, and demanded answers on why an allegedly unregistered bidder was allowed, why procurement criteria were relaxed, and whether the Auditor-General’s findings would be accepted. He alleged failures involving an invalid load port report, inaction after early warnings on substandard coal, and improper tender procedures that increased costs from about USD 98 to USD 142 per metric ton. He also questioned reported meetings with a supplier during the tender process and suggested these matters indicated possible collusion or fraud.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Anura Karunathilaka - Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation JJB
AI summary Minister Anura Karunathilaka rejected allegations that a coal procurement tender was awarded to an unregistered supplier, arguing that the Auditor-General’s Report showed registration only had to be completed before bid submission and that the decision was made by a High Procurement Committee of officials. He also disputed claims that coal testing lacked accreditation, citing certifications from Sri Lankan diplomatic missions in South Africa and Indonesia regarding the laboratories used for relevant tests. He stated that contractual mechanisms exist to penalize and recover losses from substandard coal, with further confirmatory testing underway, and denied political intervention in the procurement process.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Opposing a no-confidence motion debate on the Minister of Power and Energy, Sajith Premadasa alleged serious fraud in the importation of substandard coal and argued that the Minister’s position had become untenable. He cited PUCSL findings on reduced generation efficiency, low calorific value, increased fly-ash emissions, an estimated Rs. 8.497 billion loss from nine vessels, and risks of load shedding, and also referred to Auditor-General observations on unregistered suppliers, premature contracts, invalid quality accreditation, and emergency procurement issues. He further linked the coal issue to what he described as a government policy favouring fossil-fuel generation over renewable energy, stating that consumers face higher costs and weakened energy security.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Anuradha Jayaratne, Attorney-at-Law NDF
AI summary Hon. Anuradha Jayaratne challenged the Government’s account of the coal testing process, citing COPE evidence that the laboratory was not accredited when certificates were issued and referring to a Special Audit finding of Rs. 22.4 billion in losses from non-scheduled power generation. He questioned whether responsibility was being shifted to the Lanka Coal Company General Manager while Ministers, the Chairman and the Secretary avoided accountability, and urged the Bribery Commission and other agencies to act impartially under the Anti-Corruption Act. He also referred to the LCC Chairman’s resignation letter and argued that, given the allegations, the relevant Minister should not continue in office.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana JJB
AI summary Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana rejected allegations raised by the Opposition Leader regarding coal quality at the Lakvijaya power plant, arguing that the PUCSL assessment relied on non-accredited laboratory data and flawed ash-content methodology. He said the Auditor-General’s Special Report was brought before COPE at the request of its government-side Chairman to identify and correct issues, and alleged that past procurement practices favoured certain suppliers while the present tender process was transparent. He acknowledged lower GCV in some consignments but said penalties, including for delays, had been imposed under the applicable framework, and stated that COPE would table its report shortly for further debate.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera raised a Point of Order objecting to being misrepresented as having rejected the PUCSL Report dated 27 February 2026. He clarified that he had not rejected any recommendation in the report and urged members to address their arguments in Parliament rather than outside forums.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana JJB
AI summary Asked whether the laboratory at the Lakvijaya Power Plant is accredited, requesting a direct yes-or-no answer.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka alleged serious irregularities in the coal procurement for Norochcholai, citing CEB, PUCSL, Auditor-General and system operator findings that coal quality and testing processes were deficient. He questioned the extension of the import window, delays in appointing committees and laboratories, failure to test umpire samples, and the use of laboratories he said lacked required accreditation, arguing these actions made tender cancellation and penalty recovery impracticable. He also denied personal allegations, referred to legal action he had taken, and stated that substandard coal would create generation shortfalls requiring higher-cost diesel generation, estimating a Rs. 19–25 billion cost impact to consumers.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva cited IMF and National System Operator documents to argue that losses linked to substandard coal shipments contributed to Ceylon Electricity Board losses and therefore to electricity tariff increases under IMF-mandated cost-reflective pricing. He said reduced coal-based generation from April to June would require more expensive diesel generation, estimating an additional cost of about Rs. 19 billion, or 57 per cent of the Rs. 33 billion tariff increase sought. He tabled the relevant IMF and NSO documents and asked the Government to provide counter-data if it disputed the figures.
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary The Hon. D.V. Chanaka raised a point of order to table the National System Operator (Private) Ltd. Report.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra stated that the Opposition’s intervention was primarily based on the Auditor-General’s Special Report on coal. She thanked COPE Chairman Hon. Dr. Nishantha Samaraweera for initiating the request for the report to be considered by Parliament in an impartial manner.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra argued that the coal tender complied with High-level Procurement Committee requirements, stating that supplier eligibility depended on registration before bid submission, not before issuing bidding documents. She contrasted this with the previous award to Potencia LLC, which she said supplied coal for three years while unregistered following a Cabinet decision, and challenged the Opposition to show any comparable ministerial interference by Minister Kumara Jayakody. She also addressed laboratory accreditation concerns, stating that Mitra SK South Africa was accredited for key coal quality tests but lacked only ash composition capability, with related issues examined at COPE and to be handled through government and committee oversight.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Called for stronger protection of women and criticized Government members for alleged insults, while expressing disappointment in the President and the Government he had previously supported. He argued that allegations against Ministers should be investigated through bodies such as COPA and COPE, with the accused temporarily resigning until cleared, rather than remaining in office. He also rejected the Government’s presentation of partial fuel price reductions after larger increases as “relief” to the public.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir
AI summary Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir stated that substandard coal had been brought to the Norochcholai Lakvijaya Power Plant, but argued that the wider environmental damage was a more urgent concern than allegations of fraud. He said fishing, agriculture and public health in areas from Karambewa to Kalpitiya had been affected by ash and coal dust, and urged the Environment and Health Ministers to investigate, including reported increases in cancer and respiratory disease. He also requested the Health Minister to expedite the opening of the hospital built in Kalpitiya to serve the local population.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister argued that the Opposition’s allegations over coal procurement are aimed at portraying the Government as corrupt rather than addressing systemic weaknesses. She acknowledged flaws in procurement and state institutions and said COPE and National Audit Office inquiries are important for identifying and correcting them. She challenged the Opposition to provide evidence of intentional corruption by the Minister, Cabinet or President, stating that the Government would act if such wrongdoing were proven.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe questioned the appointment of a Government Member as Chair of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE). He argued that, in line with common parliamentary practice internationally, the COPE Chair should be an Opposition Member to ensure transparency and impartial oversight.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister said concerns about the independence of the COPE Chairman should be raised separately. She expressed confidence that Hon. (Dr.) Nishantha Samaraweera, as Chairman of COPE, would conduct an impartial inquiry.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister JJB
AI summary Prime Minister Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya rejected an implied claim that someone was unable or prohibited from doing something, stating that no such restriction exists. She contrasted the opposition’s stated experience or political culture with that of her own side.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Argues that the relevant parliamentary position should, by convention, be held by the Opposition, citing Hon. Sunil Handunnetti’s earlier tenure as an example of it being properly performed. He objects to the Government holding the position, using a proverb to imply that oversight should not be entrusted to those being scrutinized.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister stated that members of her political movement, whether in Government or Opposition, are bound by the same political culture and discipline. She emphasized that allegations of corruption involving any member, including Hon. Sunil Handunnetti or Hon. (Dr.) Nishantha Samaraweera, would be investigated without distinction.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe stated that the proposed arrangement would not be workable and called for the Opposition to appoint the Chair of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE).
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister stated that the Government was elected with a mandate to eradicate corruption and argued that credible investigations should be led by the Government side. She said the Opposition had been invited and given time to present evidence for its allegations but had not done so, and urged the public to judge based on facts rather than political claims.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth raised several service delivery needs in Pottuvil and surrounding areas, including urgent teacher vacancies, a separate Pottuvil Zonal Education Office, a teacher training centre, and the attachment of trainee teachers to underserved schools. He requested increased fuel QR allocations for tourism-related three-wheelers, upgrades and infrastructure for Paalamunai and Irakkamam hospitals, completion of the Savalakadai Youth Corps Training Centre, land deeds and basic services for resettled families in Pottuvil, and appointment of a dental doctor to Pottuvil Base Hospital. He also urged compensation for two teachers who died in a 2010 duty-related accident and recorded thanks to individuals associated with the formation and protection of Al-Hutha village in 1990.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth briefly thanked several Deputy Planning Directors, the Ampara Government Agent, and village representatives for their assistance. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or demand was raised in the remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara argued that the importation of substandard coal has increased electricity generation costs and could lead to higher electricity bills, citing a National System Operator letter indicating an additional coal-related cost of about Rs. 20 billion and possible total increases beyond the President’s Rs. 15 billion relief package. He disputed the President’s stated Rs. 7.5 billion coal procurement loss and called for updated CEB price data to be checked by the Public Utilities Commission. He also raised concern over alleged pressure by the COPE Chairman on the National Audit Office and warned that parliamentary majorities would not prevent accountability for those responsible.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala defended the Government against the Opposition’s No-Confidence Motion, arguing that several allegations raised against Ministers lacked evidence and that related matters, including the coal issue, were already before courts or parliamentary oversight bodies such as COPE. He said the Government was willing to debate and investigate procurement concerns, including through committees, and asserted that any loss from substandard coal would not be passed on to consumers. He also attacked the credibility of Opposition signatories by linking some to past Central Bank bond scam proceedings, while maintaining that the Government would act internally against wrongdoing if evidence emerged.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara proposed that Hon. Sagarika Athawuda take the Chair. The motion was agreed to, after which the Deputy Chairperson of Committees left the Chair and Hon. Sagarika Athawuda assumed it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar opposed the No-Confidence Motion against the Minister of Power, arguing that current coal procurement for the Norochcholai Lakvijaya Power Plant is being conducted transparently and without corruption. He cited audit findings and local and foreign laboratory testing, including further samples sent to Australia, to reject allegations of substandard coal or fraud during the present period. He contended that past coal procurement was controlled by politically connected groups and said the Opposition’s accusations were unsupported and politically motivated.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera supported the No-Confidence Motion by alleging that the coal procurement matter, cited by the Auditor General, reflected major corruption despite the Government’s anti-corruption mandate. He highlighted findings on Trident’s alleged lack of accreditation for sample verification and the expiry of umpire samples, and argued that those involved should face prosecution under the Public Property Act, Penal Code, and related corruption and conspiracy provisions. He called on COPE, the Bribery Commission Director General, and the Attorney General to act promptly against those responsible.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arkam Ilyas - Deputy Minister of Power JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Arkam Ilyas responded to issues raised following the Auditor General’s Report on coal procurement, stating that the supplier’s registration fee payment complied with tender eligibility rules and tabling the relevant procurement committee minutes. He said umpire samples had been tested or sent for testing through accredited Bureau Veritas laboratories, and defended the accreditation status of the laboratories used for coal quality parameters while tabling supporting documents. He acknowledged gaps in tender and registration arrangements, noting that 2026–2027 criteria would be tightened through higher financial and supply thresholds, ministry-selected laboratories, and a multi-supplier reverse bidding model to reduce dependency on one supplier. He also stated that the agreement was signed subject to Attorney General concurrence and said the Ministry would continue addressing remaining shortcomings.
- The Hon. Arkam Ilyas JJB
AI summary Hon. Arkam Ilyas said the coal agreement was signed after Auditor General concurrence and incorporation of recommendations, with relevant documents available to be tabled. He rejected claims of an Rs. 8,000 million loss as based on assuming the full energy shortfall was replaced by diesel generation, arguing that actual costs depend on the dispatch mix and different fuel costs. He stated that about Rs. 9.6 billion has been withheld from the supplier through unpaid amounts and a bid bond, with penalties also being pursued for delayed vessels, and said future tenders have been adjusted in line with audit observations. He assured that no costs arising from the coal issue would be passed on to consumers through electricity bills.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arkam Ilyas JJB
AI summary Hon. Arkam Ilyas responded to Auditor General findings on coal procurement losses, stating that around Rs. 9.6 billion has already been withheld from the supplier through payments and bid bonds against an estimated Rs. 22.3 billion loss. He said penalties have been imposed for delayed coal shipments, further recoveries will be pursued where required, and shortcomings identified by the Auditor General have been addressed in upcoming tenders. He maintained that there were no irregularities in the procurement or penalty recovery process and assured that the public would not bear any additional electricity costs due to the coal matter.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri challenged the acceptance of a coal procurement tender for the Lakvijaya Power Plant, arguing that a required company registration could not legally be deferred over a USD 20 shortfall. Citing page 102, section 6.1.3 of the Special Audit Report on 2025/2026 coal procurement, he said the Auditor General found that fairness was violated by not giving other capable suppliers the same opportunity. He stated that the Ministry Secretary had accepted the report at COPE and called on the relevant Minister to resign rather than “whitewash” the matter.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary A procedural motion was moved proposing that Hon. Sanjeewa Ranasingha take the Chair. The House agreed, and Hon. Sanjeewa Ranasingha assumed the Chair after Hon. (Mrs.) Sagarika Athauda left it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Chamara Sampath Dasanayake criticized the Government for focusing on past administrations despite holding a large mandate, and urged it to address issues arising since 2024. Referring to the resignation letter of the Lanka Coal Company Chairman, he argued that responsibility for the coal controversy should not be placed solely on the General Manager and said the relevant Minister and Secretary should also be held accountable if arrests are made. He also cited recent political controversies involving no-confidence motions and defended past power projects, warning the Government not to impose power cuts on citizens or obstruct energy development while later claiming credit.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper challenged the Government’s claim that a tender registration lapse was merely a “technical error,” citing a Supreme Court judgment that tenders must strictly comply with conditions at the closing time. He argued that later compliance cannot cure non-compliance at the relevant time and said the Auditor General’s report establishes the breach on its face. He further contended that under the CIABOC Act, corruption includes improperly using office to advantage another party, not only personal gain, and that responsibility follows where an act causes the relevant chain of events.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper used a brief metaphor to argue that responsibility for an error or outcome lies with the source of the instruction rather than external circumstances. He thanked Hon. Kabir Hashim for yielding time and addressed the Presiding Member, without making a specific legislative proposal or demand.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Najith Indika JJB
AI summary The Hon. Najith Indika rejected the Opposition’s no-confidence motion over the coal tender, arguing that while some consignments had lower-than-required values, there was no basis to allege deliberate fraud by the Minister or Government. He explained the coal import testing and payment process, stating that 80 per cent is paid on load-port results and the balance after destination testing, with adjustments or withholding where specifications fail. He said the Government had restored competitive term tendering, imposed penalties and sought recoveries from suppliers under tender conditions, contrasting this with unrecovered past losses. He also defended the appointment of the COPE Chair, saying it should be held by someone without a compromised record.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof supported the no-confidence motion against the Minister of Energy, alleging corruption in the coal import process and accusing Government members of trying to deflect responsibility by attacking the Opposition. He argued that the Government, elected on an anti-corruption platform, must answer for rising energy prices and procurement issues rather than rely on past promises or political attacks. He called on the Government to acknowledge the allegations, provide solutions, and address the impact on the public.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe alleged corruption in coal procurement for the Norochcholai power plant, citing reduced output, substandard coal, non-accredited testing certificates, and possible overpayment for low-quality coal. He criticized the conduct and independence of the COPE Chair and questioned the absence of the Lanka Coal Company Chairman during proceedings. He called for an independent COPE Chair and a proper investigation, warning of major financial losses, higher electricity bills, industrial disruptions, and load-shedding.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary The Minister of Energy defended the Government’s anti-corruption record and said the National People’s Power was committed to ending misuse of public property and enforcing the law equally. He cited his previous work at Lanka Fertilizer, claiming recoveries through performance bonds and penalties, and said his party would act against wrongdoing even within its own ranks. Addressing coal procurement allegations, he denied interfering in specifications or favouring suppliers, said he had refused a Cabinet paper related to “Potencia PLC,” and argued that past procurement practices had failed to impose bonds, quality action, or delay charges, which the Government was now changing.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman criticized the Government for not securing the Minister’s resignation over a reported Rs. 22 billion loss linked to substandard coal, arguing that the public would ultimately bear the cost through Treasury funds, tariffs, and litigation. He contrasted this with past ministerial resignations over allegations and accused the Government of failing to uphold its promised political standards. He also alleged undue influence by the COPE Chair on the Auditor General’s Department during preparation of the report and requested the Speaker to investigate, while commending the Department for issuing the report despite pressure.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe rejected the no-confidence motion over coal procurement, arguing that Cabinet acts collectively and that tender decisions were made through technical and procurement procedures rather than by the Minister alone. He said alleged corruption claims and loss estimates, including the cited Rs. 22 billion figure, should be properly examined, while noting that about USD 15 million had already been withheld from the supplier over performance and quality issues. He stated that if alternative generation such as diesel is required due to coal shortfalls, the Government will calculate and seek recovery of the additional cost from the supplier, while ensuring uninterrupted power supply without passing extra costs to the public.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Nalin Bandara Jayamaha questioned Minister Jayakody’s credibility by referring to alleged past misconduct involving a Provisional Acceptance Test report and employment-related action, and challenged him to deny it in the House. He alleged that problems at the Norochcholai power plant began after the current Government’s coal consignments and claimed the coal supplied was of historically poor quality. He demanded independent laboratory verification of the coal quality and alleged collective responsibility and protection by Government members for corruption in the procurement process.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary The Minister said the no-confidence motion against the Minister of Energy was not supported by all Opposition parties and outlined its three allegations relating to coal supply for Norochcholai, action under Gazette 2412/08 on reducing losses and costs in the power sector, and an indictment under the Bribery Act. He argued that the coal procurement procedure now being used was established in 2023 before the current Minister took office, and that the Government is operating and enforcing the inherited tender system rather than introducing a new process.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake said the Government had continued the existing coal procurement procedure, involving tender evaluation by Bid Evaluation Committees, approval by High-level Procurement Committees, and final award by Cabinet. He outlined the established quality control process for coal shipments, including testing at loading, insurance mechanisms, testing on arrival, and penalties or procedures if standards are not met. He argued that any allegation of wrongdoing should identify whether the Minister of Power interfered with or changed this established process during the past 18 months.
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary M. Nizam Kariapper, PC, stated that the process under discussion has shortcomings and unresolved issues. No specific details, proposals, or demands were provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake outlined the coal procurement process, stating that the established stages and approval barriers—Master Procurement Plan by Lanka Coal Company, bid evaluation by Cabinet-appointed committees, delivery scheduling, legal clearance by the Attorney General, and Cabinet award—remain unchanged. He emphasized that Ministers are not involved in bid evaluation and asked opponents to identify any specific stage in the process that had been altered, noting that no such change had been demonstrated in their speeches.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the Minister on why the BAG tender scheduled for April was postponed until August. He specifically asked that the explanation not rely on a claim that existing stocks were sufficient.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that the relevant matters had been properly answered with documents that could be tabled, and argued that no substantive allegation had been made regarding the process. He said planned corruption would involve altering procedures and reducing safeguards, which had not been shown, and noted that legal action remained available while predicting the motion would be defeated.
- An Hon. Member
AI summary An Hon. Member challenged another party to state truthfully whether they had asked an individual to resign. The intervention was brief and framed as a direct question rather than a substantive policy statement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake asks for the chamber’s attention and indicates that he intends to speak truthfully. No specific policy issue, proposal, or demand is presented in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that a person referred to in the debate was “not a thief” and asked members to sit down. He also noted that his parliamentary group had met the previous day.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Asked whether the Minister had been requested to resign.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake made a brief remark asserting that the unity among his side would intimidate others, suggesting that opponents were retreating. He also noted that his speaking time was running out.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake objected to a limitation on speaking time, arguing that the debate should continue until 8.00 p.m. He noted that officials would be compensated for work beyond 5.30 p.m. and requested the Speaker’s permission to continue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara made a brief remark characterizing the matter under discussion as a “big washing machine” and suggested that this was why more time was being sought. No specific legislative proposal, question, or policy demand was raised in the statement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake defended the procurement process, stating that it had not been changed and that no procedural fault or ministerial interference had occurred. He challenged critics of the no-confidence motion to take legal action if they believed there was wrongdoing, and asked them to identify any specific act by the Minister that distorted the established process. He contrasted this with typical forms of procurement manipulation, such as emergency purchases or changing laboratories, and denied that such subversion had taken place.
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Nalin Bandara Jayamaha questioned why the tender period had been reduced to 21 days. The remark sought an explanation regarding the procurement timeline, implying concern over the shortening of the standard tender process.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that a Minister does not have authority to shorten or extend procurement periods, noting that such decisions lie with the High-level Procurement Committee. He also referred to the National Procurement Commission and its prescribed timelines governing procurement processes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Clarified that the procurement matter had been submitted to and handled by the Cabinet.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake rejected allegations that Minister Jayakody interfered with a lawful procurement process, arguing that any such claims should be proven in court with documents. He stated that procurement timelines vary under National Procurement Commission rules and maintained that the existing process was not altered for corrupt or improper purposes.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the rationale behind asking a Minister to resign. The remark appears to challenge the consistency or basis of that demand within the ongoing parliamentary exchange.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake argued that the Opposition had not presented a specific, evidence-based charge against the Minister. He acknowledged, however, that electricity generation output from imported coal had been lower than expected and indicated willingness to address that issue further if necessary.
- An Hon. Member
AI summary An Hon. Member interrupted to reject an apparent claim or explanation, stating that the plant, laboratory, and officials involved were all at fault. The remark appears to challenge the reliability of technical or administrative findings, but provides no further detail on the matter under discussion.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake said that, although coal procurement procedures may have been followed without ministerial interference, the lower output from received coal indicates a lapse that must be examined for causes and remedies. He argued that ministers carry a degree of moral responsibility for failures within their sectors, even where systems are imperfect, and referred to responsibilities in reducing technical losses, generation costs, and uncertainty in electricity generation.
- The Hon. Waruna Liyanage SJB
AI summary Waruna Liyanage stated that the point or measure under discussion applies to Keheliya as well, indicating that the same standard or implication should extend to him.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Argues that while Keheliya Rambukwella’s case may be a relevant comparison because actions were taken under a specific Act, it differs from Minister Jayakody’s case. He states that Keheliya allegedly altered or undermined procedures for the purpose of theft, whereas Jayakody neither intended wrongdoing nor changed the established process.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the rationale for asking an unspecified individual to resign. The remark appears to challenge the consistency or justification of a demand for resignation raised in the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake indicated that his position on whether to resign would be made clear at the conclusion of the matter. He added that the outcome of the division would demonstrate the position taken.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara states that both he and Minister Wasantha had called on the relevant individual to resign. The intervention appears to clarify or emphasize a prior demand for resignation raised in the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that Wasantha had not been present the previous day because he was attending a new rice ceremony.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law, corrected a name, stating that it should be “Wasantha” rather than “Wasanthi.”
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake joked about a colleague’s confusion before addressing the substance of the debate. He stated that Keheliya had altered a process for corrupt purposes, while Jayakody had no such aim and did not interfere with the process.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - An Hon. Member
AI summary A Member briefly raised a procedural query to the Chief Government Whip, asking whether there had been earlier errors. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter was discussed in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that responsibility for transport shortcomings is shared, including by the Minister, but argued that ministerial resignation should not be demanded for every operational failure such as a late bus. He suggested that applying such a standard uniformly would make daily resignations inevitable across Parliament.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake argued that no specific allegation beyond moral responsibility had been made against Minister Jayakody regarding the tender issue. He stated that the Minister had not negligently interfered with or unilaterally altered the process, but had presented the tender award to Cabinet within an existing procedure. He said the matter should be examined to determine whether the reported error, including the lower calorific value, arose from the process, an individual act, or other circumstances.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe stated that the first shipment should be halted and that no further orders should be placed. His remarks indicate opposition to proceeding with the relevant procurement or delivery, though no additional context or justification was provided in the excerpt.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake stated that lapses can occur in import-export processes even in the absence of corruption. He emphasized that the relevant mechanism sets out the procedure to follow when such lapses arise.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe stated that an issue had been identified and raised from the beginning, but neither the President nor the addressee had accepted it as a lapse. The remark suggests criticism of the Government’s failure to acknowledge an alleged error or omission.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake stated that while the low calorific value was accepted, the issue to be examined was the cause of the error. He called for an investigation into the cause and rejected assuming ministerial theft without evidence.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake argued that a failure should not automatically be treated as a procedural lapse or personal fault, noting that external causes are recognized in sectors such as shipping and insurance. He said the Opposition was constructing a political narrative without substance and suggested that the technical issue of why accredited laboratories approved the relevant items should also be examined.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe stated that the relevant individuals or entity were not accredited. No further context or proposal was provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that the entities in question were accredited, even if some measures may have been lacking. He argued that an error had occurred but rejected attempts to attribute personal responsibility to Minister Jayakody, saying there was no basis to claim the Minister’s intervention caused the issue.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - An Hon. Member
AI summary A member briefly responded to criticism by stating that the opposing side was also blaming them for the matter under discussion. No specific proposal, question, or policy demand was made.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that the matter in question was not carried out by the relevant line Minister, while noting that political criticism of the Minister remained possible. He then moved to conclude his remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara noted that the allocated two-minute speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa briefly indicated that the matter under discussion was nearing its conclusion. No specific policy position, proposal, or question was raised in the statement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara briefly raised a concern about a petrol-related issue. No further details, proposals, or demands were provided in the excerpt.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake argued that the coal procurement issue should be assessed on whether Minister Jayakody had any corrupt intent or plan, noting that corruption or crimes usually leave identifiable evidence. He said the dispute concerned differing coal quality test results between the supplier and the buyer, and that moving to a mutually acceptable laboratory after rejecting the supplier’s proposed lab was a permissible step.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Moved to extend the sitting time until the debate is concluded.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law, rose on a point of order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the Chair on the procedure for extending speaking time after a Member has been told they have only two minutes remaining.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara objected to a matter before the House, stating that it was not proper. The remark was procedural in nature and did not include further argument or a specific proposal.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara objected to the Chair’s indication that he had only two minutes remaining and should conclude. He stated that the time allocation was incorrect.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Requested that the debate continue until all scheduled speeches are completed, given its importance. Asked the Speaker to obtain the consent of the House for this extension.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake asked for the noise in the chamber to be reduced, stating that he would conclude his remarks within five minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara stated that he did not agree, without providing further reasons or elaboration in the recorded excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake argued that allegations of wrongdoing in a coal procurement matter were not supported by the conduct described in the relevant report. He said that, after concerns arose, samples were tested not only at a mutually agreed Indonesian laboratory proposed by the supplier but also at a recognized Australian laboratory, indicating additional independent verification rather than a cover-up. He also stated that the registration timeline for coal suppliers did not show preferential treatment, as all bidding companies were registered around 18–19 August rather than any alleged favoured company being expedited.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe interjects to correct or clarify the timing being discussed, stating that the relevant point occurred earlier than the date or period mentioned. The remark is brief and does not advance a substantive policy argument or proposal.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that the matter should be properly checked, arguing that the actions taken indicate an effort to verify or corroborate the issue rather than pursue any corrupt objective. He maintained that, if there had been corrupt intent, the conduct would have reflected that, whereas the evidence suggested the opposite.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna rose to raise a point of order. No substantive issue or argument was presented in the provided speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order under Standing Order 92(2). He appealed to the Chair to ask another Member to stop speaking, stating that he needed to leave.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake warned Members against disrupting proceedings, stating that continued interruptions could lead to a motion to name and remove them from the Chamber. He urged Members to raise formal points of order instead of interrupting, and indicated he was concluding his remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara asked how the relevant individual would be removed, indicating a request for clarification on the procedure or authority for removal. No further context, proposal, or legislative detail was provided in the quoted remark.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake begins a remark concerning Minister Jayakody, but the provided excerpt is too brief to identify a substantive argument, proposal, question, or policy issue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna raised a point of order during the proceedings. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided speech text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake accused opposing Members of attempting to derail the proceedings by raising repeated points of order. He stated that the conduct of the debate was evident to all present and implied that some Members did not want the debate to continue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB
AI summary Harshana Rajakaruna raised a procedural objection regarding the allocation of parliamentary speaking time, stating that House time was agreed to be divided 60:40. He indicated concern that the agreed allocation was not being followed and sought adherence to that arrangement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake briefly objected to an interruption, stating that additional time had been approved and requesting that he be allowed to finish without obstruction.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara noted that the member in question habitually speaks after 5.30 p.m., implying a recurring procedural or scheduling concern. No substantive policy issue or legislative matter was raised.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake criticized the Opposition for presenting a no-confidence motion without substantive arguments and suggested it was brought despite being likely to fail. He also objected that the Opposition was obstructing the Government’s opportunity to respond during the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara raised a procedural point that the proceedings had exceeded the expected time by more than half an hour.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake objected that interruptions had extended his speech beyond the allotted time and asked the Speaker to allow him to conclude properly. The intervention focused on securing procedural space to finish his remarks rather than raising a substantive policy issue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake stated that a no-confidence motion against a Cabinet Minister should be treated as a motion against the entire Government. He also objected to the allocation of speaking time, noting that the debate had been prolonged because others used much of the available time and that he and others did not have the expected thirty minutes by 5.30 p.m.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara raised a point of order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara objected to the allocation of speaking time, noting that the Chief Government Whip customarily begins after 5.30 p.m. He requested that any additional time granted be distributed equally among all speakers rather than giving the Chief Government Whip an extra half hour.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake opposed the no-confidence motion, stating that the Government had reviewed the relevant tender process and found no procedural lapse or corruption involving Minister Jayakody, while acknowledging public concern and a separate pending court matter relating to Jayakody’s earlier official role at Lanka Fertilizer. He said the President would appoint a Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry, comprising sitting Supreme Court Justices, to examine the entire coal procurement process since 2009, covering around 465 shipments. Rathnayake argued that any wrongdoing found—whether by the Minister or by previous officeholders—should lead to legal consequences, and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting its anti-corruption mandate.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary A Division was called on Order Paper Item No. 83, the no-confidence motion against the Minister of Power, Hon. Kumara Jayakody. Members were instructed on the electronic voting procedure and asked to verify their recorded votes, with an invitation for any Member unable to vote to indicate so.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara indicated that he rose from Seat No. 21 to vote in favour.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir
AI summary Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir rose to indicate support, stating that he was in favour from Seat No. 64.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary During an electronic division in Parliament, the vote concluded with 47 Members voting in favour and 152 against, with no abstentions. Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe was recorded as voting against.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- 11 Adjournment Adjournment of Parliament 3 speeches