Parliament approves Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (amendment) Bill

Regardless of all efforts the UPFA Joint Opposition took to disrupt the process, the Government was able to receive the House approval smoothly for the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (amendment) Bill when it was taken up for committee stage yesterday in Parliament. 

When the Bill was taken up for second reading on Tuesday, the debate got adjourned to prevent the Government getting humiliated in the absence of its carder to vote in the event the UPFA Joint Opposition seeks division. With utmost difficulty, Deputy Speaker Ananda Kumarasiri was able to save the day for the Government by adjourning the debate for a future date soon after the JO sought a division to extend the sitting beyond 6.30 p.m., allowing the debate to progress. 

However, following a division called for by JO strongman MP Leader Wimal Weerawansa, the Bill was passed with a majority of 64 votes, receiving 95 votes in favour and 31 against. A total of 97 members were absent. UPFA MP Douglas Devananda abstained from voting while JVP MPs were absent in the Chamber. The TNA voted in favour along with the SLFP and UNP members in the Government, whereas the JO and ‘SLFP Group of 16’ members in the Opposition voted against. Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was at the chamber during the vote, voted against the bill. (AH)