The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, some in the Opposition have made unduly narrow interpretations of Clean Sri Lanka — not out of ignorance, but as a deliberate performance. To understand Clean Sri Lanka, understand the public mandate — 159 seats. There is a clear aspiration we are implementing. Do not reduce this to removing accessories from three-wheelers or buses; it is a broader, value-driven transformation.

¶ 02 Two issues were raised: passports and illegal weapons/drugs. On passports: when we took office, queues at Suhurupaya stretched 3.5 km. Today, as Hon. Rajakaruna acknowledged, those queues are gone. We have an online appointment system with an emergency committee to fast-track genuine urgent needs upon documentation. A related court case had a stay order; it has been vacated and is now before the Court of Appeal, listed for tomorrow. After its conclusion, we can take further steps.

¶ 03 On illegal weapons and drugs: for the first time, the Acting IGP publicly stated they are now operating free of political interference. Former IGP C.D. Wickramaratne said there were 250 OIC appointments made on political grounds. We are de-politicizing. From 12 to 20 January, within just nine days, we seized 5,760 kg of heroin, cannabis and other drugs, and recovered 27 illegal firearms — including T-56s, pistols, shotguns, and improvised guns. Firearms once stockpiled like armouries in politicians’ homes are now being taken off the streets. The STF and Police are acting.

¶ 04 On the electricity “mafia”: when a former Minister alleged it was at Diyawannawa, it led to a no-confidence motion against the then PUCSL Chair. Today, the PUCSL has issued decisions we respect and follow. That is the difference.

¶ 05 On the judiciary: the previous regime attacked courts and Chief Justices, even attempting unconstitutional appointments. A recent Supreme Court FR 35/2024 made clear that an unsuitable judicial officer should be removed, and the Constitutional Council should not approve such appointments. We are acting in line with that judgment; four suitable judges have now been appointed to the Supreme Court, and merit-based appointments to the Court of Appeal are underway, while also addressing case delays.

¶ 06 On the PTA: the President clearly stated last night that it will be repealed swiftly; a Cabinet subcommittee has been appointed, and we will proceed accordingly. Regarding issues raised from Kolonnawa: court-ordered removals of encroachments and traders on pedestrian walkways are pursuant to decisions made under the previous government. We have discussed with the Central Environmental Authority and the National Housing Development Authority to ensure affected families and traders are not thrown onto the streets and that permanent solutions are provided. Thank you.