Topic
Corruption & Governance Reform
2,708 speeches · 349 speakers
Party share
By the speaker's party · counts only, no scoring. "Unattributed" = speeches not resolved to an MP.
Most active on this topic
| # | Member | Speeches |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, M.P. JJB | 91 |
| 2 | Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney at Law, M.P. SJB | 86 |
| 3 | Hon. Mujibur Rahman, M.P. SJB | 80 |
| 4 | Hon. Ajith P. Perera, M.P. SJB | 70 |
| 5 | Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri, M.P. SJB | 68 |
| 6 | Hon. Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, M.P. JJB | 68 |
| 7 | Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna, M.P. Independent Group 17 - Jaffna | 67 |
| 8 | Hon. Sajith Premadasa, M.P. SJB | 65 |
| 9 | Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, M.P. NDF | 64 |
| 10 | Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, M.P. JJB | 64 |
Speeches
2,708 on this topic- 6 February 2026 The Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe - Deputy Minister of Labour JJB AI summary Deputy Minister Mahinda Jayasinghe rejected Opposition claims that the Government was misusing emergency powers, stating that protests had been allowed and that emergency measures were used to manage disaster recovery after widespread landslides. He argued that the economy and district-level development had improved, while accusing the Opposition of communal agitation and inconsistent positions on education reforms, which he said were intended to strengthen state responsibility and expand opportunities for students. He also challenged the Opposition Leader to table observations from visits to shelters and criticized remarks made to Development Officers. Referring to several ongoing corruption and criminal cases involving former political figures, he said prosecutions were proceeding through legal processes without political interference, though public expectations for speed were higher. Debate: Extension of Emergency Regulations (Cyclone Ditwah) Read →
- 6 February 2026 The Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran ITAK AI summary During debate on the Public Security Ordinance, Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran argued that continued reliance on the Prevention of Terrorism Act, including during the “Ditva” disaster, is unnecessary and risks suppressing legitimate claims for justice, and urged the Government to repeal it as previously promised. He also called for equal treatment of all religions in legal and public security matters, while acknowledging Government action on drugs, bribery, and corruption. He raised concerns over severe delays and alleged corruption in passport renewals at Sri Lankan missions abroad, proposing digital monitoring, databases, and performance oversight. He further urged immediate fair pricing and procurement arrangements for paddy farmers in Ampara District affected by reduced yields and inadequate storage and purchasing systems. Debate: Extension of Emergency Regulations (Cyclone Ditwah) Read →
- 6 February 2026 The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB AI summary The Leader of the Opposition argued that emergency regulations are unnecessary for disaster relief payments and said the Government should instead use and amend the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Act, establish a dedicated Disaster Management Ministry, and strengthen relevant technical agencies. He called for IMF programme renegotiation, an international pledging conference, and a fuller assessment of disaster damage, citing future external debt servicing pressures and the World Bank GRADE report. He also criticized the use of emergency powers in relation to arrests of monks, raised questions on the Easter attack investigations, and challenged alleged inconsistencies in education reform explanations, including a disputed Grade 6 English module link and the absence of early ICT education. He concluded that extending emergency law reflects a repressive approach and urged repeal or replacement of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill with a national security law consistent with human rights standards. Debate: Extension of Emergency Regulations (Cyclone Ditwah) Read →
- 6 February 2026 The Hon. (Dr.) Madhura Senevirathna - Deputy Minister JJB AI summary Deputy Minister Madhura Senevirathna said a building had initially been identified under the coordinating committee’s charter, but its allocation was opposed by a political group, creating the need to find an alternative. He stated that although another building was identified, it had not yet been secured, and said the Government would consider the specific building raised in the discussion and make a decision on it. Oral Question: Schools in Colombo Municipal Council Area (Q.74/2025) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi JJB AI summary Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi raised an adjournment question on continued expenditure for Provincial Council Chairmen after the expiry of Provincial Council terms. He asked for the end dates of each Council’s term, the legal or administrative basis for Chairmen continuing in office, their duties after lapse, five-year expenditure details by Council and budget head, and whether any Councils currently lack Chairmen and with what effect. He said continued payment of salaries, allowances, facilities and staff despite Councils not functioning has prompted public criticism and requested a response from the responsible Minister. Adjournment: Adjournment Questions and House Closure Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Ruwanthilaka Jayakody JJB AI summary Hon. Ruwanthilaka Jayakody supported the Institute of Real Estate Professionals of Sri Lanka Bill, arguing that the rapid growth of the real estate, condominium and land markets requires a legally recognized public institution to regulate, supervise and professionalize the sector. He said the Bill would help protect the dignity of real estate professionals while providing accountability mechanisms for the public, similar to those governing surveyors, lawyers, accountants, engineers and valuers. He also noted the need to address risks such as money laundering through real estate transactions and to regularize previously inadequate professional structures. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Rohana Bandara AI summary Hon. Rohana Bandara urged the Government to amend the Gazette for the teachers’ examination to include graduates who completed degrees up to the end of 2025, not only those within the stated date range. He criticised Independence Day messaging and said the armed forces’ role in ending the war and responding to cyclone-related emergencies should be acknowledged. He also called for equal application of the law, specifically requesting that the Speaker step aside temporarily while allegations regarding fuel misuse are investigated. The speech further accused the Government of inconsistency, deal-making politics, and racially framed rhetoric, while urging responsible governance under its parliamentary majority. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Lakmali Hemachandra referred to reactions in Trincomalee against political agitation and criticized past rulers for fostering divisive politics, crime, and corruption. She praised the Tri-Forces for their rescue and restoration work during Cyclone Michaung and called for respect for all communities, national unity, and rejection of racist politics. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Lakmali Hemachandra rejected claims that Independence Day celebrations and the Tri-Forces should be framed through racism, arguing that all parties have a responsibility to end ethnic and religious divisive politics after the damage caused by the 30-year war. She criticized Opposition figures, including Namal Rajapaksa, for allegedly invoking Sinhala Buddhist sentiment despite past responsibility for the country’s crisis, and said the public mandate was against racism and corruption and for dignity and honesty. She also referred to controversy over education reforms and allegations against the Speaker, saying such narratives were being used to mislead the public. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra stated that Parliament has appointed a Special Committee to investigate Opposition allegations concerning the 323 containers. She said Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, as a member of that Committee, should raise and pursue the matter through its proceedings rather than make insinuations in the Chamber, and should be bound by the Committee’s decisions. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara tabled a privilege matter he said had been disallowed by the Speaker, along with a complaint made to the Bribery Commission against the Speaker. He alleged irregular payments for preliminary inquiry work far exceeding amounts permitted by a Public Administration circular, and raised concerns under the Anti-Corruption Act regarding misuse of state property and loss to the State. He also alleged improper use of both the Speaker’s official residence and another official apartment, and called on the President and Government to have the Speaker, and his Private Secretary, refrain from duties until investigations are concluded. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Muhammad Faizal JJB AI summary Hon. Muhammad Faizal defended the Government’s record in Puttalam, stating that work had begun within a year to upgrade the Puttalam Base Hospital and pledging to complete the necessary arrangements and open the Puttalam–Mannar road for public travel. He accused former ministers of using the needs of displaced communities and election promises for political gain without securing services, and said legal cases by their supporters had obstructed the road opening. He also rejected allegations that the Government promoted racism, arguing that the NPP had reduced communal rhetoric and vandalism, while providing flood relief and pursuing anti-corruption, proper use of foreign funds, rule of law, and macroeconomic stability. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Chandana Sooriyaarachchi JJB AI summary Hon. Chandana Sooriyaarachchi supported the Bills relating to real estate professionals, container depot operators, and licensing of ship agents and related operators, arguing that they form part of the Government’s reforms to strengthen economic and industrial development. He said the Government had restored macroeconomic stability after the country’s recent crisis and was addressing past weaknesses, corruption, and institutional failures. He also criticized the Opposition over its handling of issues such as School Development Officers, claims about religion, and references to war heroes, while stating that the Government would allow legal institutions to act independently against corruption and crime. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Ravindra Bandara AI summary Hon. Ravindra Bandara spoke during debate on the Licensing of Container Depot Operators Bill, but focused mainly on rebutting opposition allegations and defending the Government’s anti-corruption and law-enforcement agenda. He argued that investigations into past murders, assaults, disappearances, procurement issues, and alleged corruption—including the MIG deal—were part of the Government’s electoral promises, and said special courts for major fraud and corruption were now functioning. He also rejected claims about religious suppression, housing failures, container irregularities, and coal procurement misconduct, while citing past landslide resettlement delays and urging the Opposition to abandon communal politics and respond to ongoing investigations. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Eranga Gunasekara JJB AI summary Hon. Eranga Gunasekara argued that the absence of clear regulation in the real estate sector has contributed to excessive increases in housing and land prices and enabled malpractice. He supported establishing the Institution of Real Estate Professionals of Sri Lanka as a regulatory and professional body to set standards, strengthen practitioners’ professionalism, and benefit the public. He urged Parliament to adopt the Bill. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Attorney-at-Law SLPP AI summary Namal Rajapaksa asked the Government to state what steps it is taking on the issue under discussion. He urged the Government not to attack religious leaders or encourage divisive nationalism for political gain, and criticized diaspora engagements, saying they should not be conducted at public expense or at the cost of national interests. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB AI summary Harshana Rajakaruna stated that the Speaker’s Private Secretary had requested details from the Secretary-General about a CIABOC complaint, which he said could amount to a serious offence under the Anti-Corruption Act. He requested CIABOC to investigate the matter immediately and stressed that no one should obstruct its work. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB AI summary Harshana Rajakaruna referred to provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, stating that interference with CIABOC investigations or destruction of relevant documents are serious offences. He raised concern over a complaint reportedly made by the Deputy Secretary-General of Parliament to the Bribery Commission against the Speaker four months earlier, and cited a letter dated 2026.02.03 from Chameera Gallage to the Secretary-General of Parliament in that context. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar requested that allegations made against Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara under Standing Order 91(c) be expunged from Hansard, while briefly criticizing past political alignments. He then alleged serious irregularities in coal procurement by the Ministry of Power and Lanka Coal Company, including shortened tender periods, altered qualification criteria, poor-quality coal shipments, unclear penalty calculations, and possible costly spot procurement. He questioned the basis for cancelling shipments and moving to spot tenders, warning that the process could create coal shortages and power cuts, and asked the Minister of Justice to raise the matter in Cabinet and stop the alleged fraud and losses. Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals, Container Depot Operators Licensing, and Shipping Agents Licensing Bills (Second Reading) Read →
- 5 February 2026 The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB AI summary Bimal Rathnayake said environmental agencies’ strict positions were understandable given past large-scale environmental destruction linked to political patronage and corrupt business, citing land clearing in Mannar, Marichchikaddi and the Madu forest. He commended Department of Wildlife Conservation officials while stating that the government would protect both the environment and affected people. He proposed discussions with the Environment Minister to find a solution. Oral Question: SLEAS Recruitment, Road Development, and Standing Order 27(2) Questions Read →