Topic
Law & Order
1,620 speeches · 292 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. Ananda Wijepala, M.P. JJB | 137 |
| 2 | Hon. Sajith Premadasa, M.P. SJB | 57 |
| 3 | Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, M.P. JJB | 55 |
| 4 | Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney at Law, M.P. JJB | 46 |
| 5 | Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney at Law, M.P. SJB | 45 |
| 6 | Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney at Law, M.P. JJB | 43 |
| 7 | Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna, M.P. Independent Group 17 - Jaffna | 37 |
| 8 | Hon. Mujibur Rahman, M.P. SJB | 36 |
| 9 | Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, M.P. NDF | 32 |
| 10 | Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Attorney at Law, M.P. SLPP | 30 |
Speeches
1,620 on this topic- 23 May 2025 The Hon. (Mrs.) Anushka Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Anushka Thilakarathne supported the Bill to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure Act, arguing that legal reform is necessary to close loopholes, ensure equality before the law, and address delays in justice. She cited case backlog figures from the Ministry of Justice, including over 800,000 pending Magistrates’ Court cases, and said the reforms would need accompanying improvements in staffing, facilities, equipment, funding, and digitization. She also linked the measure to the Government’s broader priorities of rural poverty eradication, digitization, and Clean Sri Lanka, while criticizing the Opposition’s absence from the debate and calling for cooperation in maintaining peace and improving public services. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 23 May 2025 The Hon. (Mrs.) Hiruni Wijesinghe, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Hiruni Wijesinghe supported the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill, stating that it provides a legal framework for remote testimony and court participation, including for overseas witnesses, elderly and disabled persons, children in care, prisoners, police officers, and persons living far from court. She argued that the measure advances the Government’s commitment to digitizing the justice sector, reduces costs and delays, and improves safety in light of recent shootings and attacks connected to court and prison transport. She described the Bill as an initial step toward a digital court system and requested cooperation from the Bar and the public for its implementation. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 23 May 2025 The Hon. Priyantha Wijerathna, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Hon. Priyantha Wijerathna supported the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill, noting that similar remote-participation mechanisms have long existed in other jurisdictions and that Sri Lanka is belatedly adopting them. He said the Bill would allow accused persons, suspects, witnesses, and expert witnesses to participate by video link, enable overseas testimony through missions, and permit electronic filing, thereby reducing delays caused by non-appearance and saving time and costs. He also argued that remote proceedings would improve safety by avoiding the physical production of high-risk accused or suspects, citing several past shootings linked to courts and prison transport. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 23 May 2025 The Hon. (Mrs.) Thushari Jayasingha, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Hon. Thushari Jayasingha supported the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill, arguing that remote participation and evidence-recording mechanisms would reduce adjournments and improve court efficiency. She highlighted proposed provisions allowing electronic hearings, remote witness testimony, and the use of Commissioners, particularly where security risks, prison production issues, child victim testimony, or health and practical barriers make physical attendance difficult. She cited past incidents of communal unrest, risks to accused persons and witnesses, and delayed abuse trials as examples of why technology-based court procedures are needed. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 23 May 2025 The Hon. K. Kader Masthan SLLP AI summary Hon. K. Kader Masthan supported the Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment), stating that allowing accused persons to appear digitally in specified proceedings would improve safety and reduce transport and security costs, while also noting the Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill. He used the debate to raise the continuing closure of the Puttalam–Ilavankulam–Marichchikatti–Mannar road, arguing that it imposes major travel and economic burdens and should be resolved without undermining judicial independence. He requested discussions among the Ministers of Justice and Environment, the Attorney-General’s Department and the Road Development Authority, and proposed a Cabinet-backed solution to reopen or redesign the road without environmental or wildlife harm. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 23 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning AI summary The Deputy Minister supported the repeal of the Foreign Loans Act, linking it to Sri Lanka’s debt crisis and the transition to the Public Debt Management Act enacted in 2024. He argued that past governments misused borrowing powers, citing the bond scam and debt in state institutions such as SriLankan Airlines as examples of weak governance and corruption. He said the 18-month transition would move debt management functions from the Central Bank to the new Public Debt Management Office, which must be equipped with adequate capacity, integrity and technology. Debate: Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Bill and Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna criticized the Government, alleging that Ministers are unable or unwilling to speak openly about people being killed because of legal constraints. He described this as a shameful situation and thanked Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy for bringing the Adjournment Motion. Adjournment Motion: Empowerment of Small and Medium Exporters in Northern Province Read →
- 22 May 2025 Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna supported the Motion on small and medium exporters in Jaffna but urged that development proposals also include the Eastern Province, referring to the North and East as the Tamil homeland. He proposed establishing a leather-tanning factory in the North or East, specifically suggesting Chavakachcheri, and called for the long-unopened Chavakachcheri Economic Centre built in 2017 to be addressed at the next District Coordinating Committee meeting. He also raised concerns about northern salt being transported south instead of being packed and distributed from the North, criticized remarks attributed to Minister Sunil Handunnetti, and rejected allegations that he was linked to the LTTE while making broader remarks on how different communities regard wartime figures. Adjournment Motion: Empowerment of Small and Medium Exporters in Northern Province Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri criticized the Government’s handling of import controls, citing salt shortages as an example of administrative failure and arguing that officials had been prevented from planning for seasonal production disruptions. He accused the Government of relying on anti-corruption rhetoric and selective arrests instead of addressing economic management, and said imports and exports had declined. Referring to proposed salt imports from India, he stated that landed costs would allow salt to be supplied at about Rs. 130 per kilo, or around Rs. 200 with tax. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Dinindu Saman Hennayake JJB AI summary Hon. Dinindu Saman Hennayake supported the regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act and amendments to the Disposal of Property Act, arguing that import controls, especially for vehicles, should address forged documentation, customs abuses, and delays through more credible online verification systems. He said the amendments relating to escrow funds under the Bribery or Corruption Commission were needed to adjust financial thresholds in light of increased complaints. He also responded to Opposition criticism over war heroes, government spending, and shortages of salt and other commodities, asserting that the Government had provided tangible benefits to veterans and that recent shortages were temporary and worsened by hoarding and Opposition-aligned business interests. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Upali Samarasingha - Deputy Minister of Co-operative Development JJB AI summary The Deputy Minister said the regulations and resolutions before the House seek to update outdated vehicle import and tax administration procedures, close legal and procedural gaps, prevent abuses such as tax evasion and registration of stolen vehicles, and improve transparency and efficiency. He noted that Gazette No. 2428/07 of 19 March 2025 designates compliant inspection institutions for vehicle imports and that deposit/advance account limits are being recalibrated after institutional review. He also corrected claims on Puttalam salt production, stating total output is just over 30,000 MT and that about 600 MT has been released, with further releases to follow, and said the Government will act on the Mannar-Puttalam road issue in accordance with the relevant court order. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama JJB AI summary Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama raised concerns about the increase in stray dogs, attributing it to unregulated roaming and abandonment, particularly by low-income households unable to care for sick dogs or provide food. He cited studies indicating that about 70 percent of stray dogs originate from such households and proposed establishing a legal framework through local authorities to register new dogs, asking whether this could be implemented. Oral Question: Sand Mining Permits and Stray Dog Control (Q.7/2025) Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama JJB AI summary Prof. L.M. Abeywickrama raised concern that the stray dog population had become an acute crisis, citing incidents in Matara District involving attacks on calves, road accidents, and increased hospital costs from injuries and dog bites. He said earlier measures and proposals, including sterilization programmes, had ceased in 2025 and asked the Deputy Minister whether there is a short-term action plan to expedite control measures. Oral Question: Sand Mining Permits and Stray Dog Control (Q.7/2025) Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. E.M. Basnayaka JJB AI summary E.M. Basnayaka raised concerns about forged sand mining permits allegedly issued by sand yard owners despite the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau’s official permit system, saying this creates difficulties for tipper drivers during transport. He also said permits are being resold at higher prices by sand sales centres, yards, and intermediaries, increasing costs for transporters and consumers, and asked whether a uniform controlled price for sand could be introduced. Oral Question: Sand Mining Permits and Stray Dog Control (Q.7/2025) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Asked the Deputy Minister about the status of Government relief measures concerning the parate law and the restructuring process initiated with the involvement of the Ministry of Finance. Requested an update on the current progress of that process. Procedural: Questions on Bank of Ceylon Relief and Allied Health Graduates - Final Business Read →
- 21 May 2025 Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy criticized the Government’s conduct and outcome in the Local Government Election, arguing that the President and national leaders fronted the campaign and should accept responsibility for the loss of votes. He raised concerns over national security, organized crime, death threats to public figures, and the safety and dignity of MPs, while urging stronger action against the underworld and drug trafficking. He also questioned the Government’s handling of the cost of living, factory closures, and the promised arrangements for Sri Lankan driving licences to be recognized in Italy. He called on the President and Government to act as representatives of all Sri Lankans, honour war heroes, and implement a practical programme to rebuild the country. Debate: Finance Act Order and Notification on Luxury Tax on Motor Vehicles - Continued (Afternoon Session) Read →
- 21 May 2025 Hon. Jagath Manuwarna JJB AI summary Hon. Jagath Manuwarna said the Government rejects attempts to revive racist or chauvinist war-time politics and cited recent election results as a mandate to end such politics. He accused Opposition parties of seeking “impure alliances” and having historical links with organized crime figures, while stating that the National People’s Power Government would not rely on corrupt actors. He argued that the local government mandate should be used to address village-level needs such as drinking water, roads, canals and bus services, and said the Government would work with those able to serve the public. Debate: Finance Act Order and Notification on Luxury Tax on Motor Vehicles - Continued (Afternoon Session) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB AI summary Sajith Premadasa challenged the Minister to disclose the names and evidence if any Samagi Jana Balawegaya leaders or members are alleged to have links to the underworld. He demanded that such claims be substantiated publicly rather than made without specific proof. Debate: Finance Act Order - Continued Discussion (Multiple Speakers) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB AI summary Minister Ananda Wijepala responded to the Opposition Leader’s question on alleged links between the underworld and politicians, stating that he had already presented relevant names in Parliament. He said investigations are ongoing and that the findings will be tabled once completed, emphasizing that such statements are not made without basis. Debate: Finance Act Order - Continued Discussion (Multiple Speakers) Read →
- 20 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning AI summary The Deputy Minister criticized the Opposition’s record on tax policy, vehicle imports and commercial borrowing, arguing that high debt-servicing costs are a consequence of past decisions and that the Government is seeking to increase revenue and reduce leakages. He said concerns raised about registered and unregistered vehicles and the 85 per cent rule arose from existing laws and regulations, not new Government action, and that amendments would be considered to strengthen revenue collection. He also stated that recovery of past CEB debts should be handled through a lawful mechanism that minimizes the burden on consumers, with the Public Utilities Commission independently determining the appropriate tariff-related approach. Debate: Order under the Excise (Special Provisions) Act - Electric Vehicle Tax Revision (Continued) Read →