Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Opposition files no-confidence motion against Parliament Speaker
Forty-four Opposition MPs have formally lodged a no-confidence motion against Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, citing approximately 50 allegations of misconduct and financial irregularities. The motion was submitted to Parliament's Secretary-General on Friday.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The no-confidence motion, comprising 12 pages, was handed to Secretary-General of Parliament Kushani Rohanadheera on Friday morning, marking a significant escalation in parliamentary tensions. The move represents a coordinated effort by the Opposition to challenge the Speaker's suitability for the position.
The allegations contained in the motion span multiple areas of concern, including alleged misconduct, misuse of public funds and State property, financial irregularities, conflicts of interest, abuse of authority, and violations of parliamentary procedures. The comprehensive nature of the charges suggests a systematic review of the Speaker's conduct during his tenure.
The filing of the motion sets in motion procedural requirements under parliamentary standing orders. The submission to the Secretary-General formally initiates the constitutional process for considering removal of the Speaker, a rare occurrence in Sri Lankan politics that typically requires substantial parliamentary support to succeed.
The timing of the motion reflects heightened political tensions within Parliament, with the Opposition seeking to challenge the current parliamentary leadership. The outcome of the no-confidence motion will depend on its consideration by the full legislature and the level of support it garners among Members of Parliament.