The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, our manifesto promised to stabilize the bankrupt economy, reform the political culture, ensure national reconciliation, enforce the rule of law against corruption, reform education, and eliminate narcotics.

¶ 02 Within a short time, we stabilized the economy, boosted exports, tourism and remittances, increased dollar and rupee revenues, and saved Rs. 1.2 trillion last year, enabling Rs. 500 billion for disaster recovery after “Ditva.”

¶ 03 Today’s Bill is not merely to abolish MPs’ pensions; it is to reform a corrupt political culture in which office‑holders amassed benefits—legal and illegal—with permits and contracts for cronies. The Opposition’s claim that pensions prevent corruption is belied by history. Investigations continue; none will be halted.

¶ 04 We are turning the elite politician into a normal public servant among the people. This Bill is one part of a larger transformation. We are also dismantling the nexus of politicians, underworld and narcotics. We will protect every citizen’s life while pursuing reforms such as education changes and the “Praja Shakthi” programme to eradicate rural poverty.

¶ 05 Transparency International’s index shows Sri Lanka improving from 121st to 107th—reflecting our anti‑corruption drive. We will continue strengthening governance and economic stability.