The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 02 I wish to raise a few points regarding the Gambling Regulatory Authority Bill. First, I must recall the then Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna’s opposition to gambling. When the previous government brought similar proposals, Hon. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, then seated where I am now, repeatedly asked, “Why are you turning this country into a gambling hub?” He strongly criticized it. Those criticisms are now forgotten; having come into government, they participate in openings on one side and move to strengthen and expand such activities on the other—while lecturing us in the meantime.

¶ 03 We are not opposed to regulation. We believe gambling must be regulated, and there should be an authority. Crucially, it must be independent. Without an independent authority, concentrating power in the Minister will only deepen corruption. Therefore, key appointments must be subject to Constitutional Council approval to safeguard independence.

¶ 04 Another point: We hear that promoting gambling will attract many tourists, especially from India where many like to gamble, bringing revenue. That is true and should be encouraged. But there is also strong criticism from a cultural and religious perspective. A practical approach used in other countries, like Singapore and China, is to allow gambling for foreigners while prohibiting it for citizens. We suggest the same: restrict casino entry to foreign passport or visa holders and prohibit Sri Lankan citizens from gambling. The Government has a two‑thirds majority, can amend laws or bring new ones. You came to power promising constitutional change; if you can do that, you can do this. We are watching to see if you will.

¶ 05 We also hear talk about cannabis cultivation. We’ve been told a BOI land in the Mirigama electorate is to be given for such an industry. If that is wrong, correct the record now. Even a Deputy Minister has mentioned it. During the previous government, some opposed Diana Gamage over casinos and cannabis; now those same people approve them. What they said they would never do, they are doing.

¶ 06 Likewise, they said they would never import rice or salt; now both are being imported. Everything they said they would not do, they have started doing. Listen again to the old recordings of what was said in this House and during the presidential campaign; today’s actions are the opposite. We in the Opposition will support constructive, future‑oriented policies. Please implement what you promised.