SLPP questions SBJ’s legal standing if Parliament convenes

Thursday, 30 April 2020 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Says SJB MPs status within UNP would have to be clarified
Believes resources to reconvene Parliament better used for COVID-19 mitigation

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) yesterday raised concerns over the legal standing of Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) parliamentarians led by Sajith Premadasa if Parliament is reconvened, questioning their membership in the United National Party (UNP).

Speaking to reporters, SLPP senior member and former parliamentarian Dilan Perera said legality should be explored of how SBJ members could be represented in Parliament if it were to be convened.

“When Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed as the Opposition Leader in 2018, the UNP questioned his appointment as there was speculation that he joined SLPP and whether he should be retained in the Parliament as an MP. At that point the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) clearly stated that he was a member of UPFA. Therefore the same question will arise about SJB members if the Parliament was reconvened,” he said.

Perera pointed out that resources spent on reconvening Parliament would be better used for fighting COVID-19. Therefore, Perera suggested that all political parties should support the Government’s efforts instead.

Referring to the latest updates about the Government’s efforts to combat COVID-19, Perera said the health officials were working around the clock to identify infected individuals and track all who have come into contact with them.

“The Government and health officials with the support of the military are doing a tremendous job. All we have to do is stay at home and support them. I request the Opposition to do the same as this is a global crisis. Once this is over we can do politics,” he added.

Perera reiterated the Government would provide relief to those affected due to curfew. The Presidential Task Force on Economic Revival and Poverty Eradication were working around the clock to provide necessary relief, he said.