President intervenes to confirm Harsha as CoPF Chair

• SJB MP de Silva calls Wickremesinghe’s intervention a ‘groundbreaking moment’ 
• Assures positive oversight will prevail over matters of public finance
• Says committed to serving with efficiency and transparency in safeguarding public finances from bankruptcy

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr Harsha de Silva

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr Harsha de Silva was finally appointed as the Chairman of the Committee on Public Finances (CoPF) yesterday ending continuous postponements by the selection committee. 

Announcing his appointment, de Silva said despite a tough fight against the Government led by the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, the opposition triumphed and secured the rightful position of Chair of the CoPF. De Silva also revealed that President Ranil Wickremesinghe had personally intervened and endorsed his name proposed by the opposition. The newly appointed Chair called it a “ground-breaking moment”.

“Grateful for the unwavering support of Sajith Premadasa, the SJB and the united opposition including all parties. I am committed to serving with utmost efficiency and transparency in safeguarding our public finances from bankruptcy caused by misguided policies,” De Silva said. 

The MP also assured he will ensure that positive oversight will prevail over matters of Government expense, fiscal responsibility and the management, sustenance and servicing of public debt. “Look forward to working closely with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in making this happen,” he added. 

Following several delays, De Silva had slammed the SLPP-led Government for preventing his appointment to the post. The issue was also raised by the MP and opposition leader Sajith Premadasa on several occasions. 

In late May Chief Government Whip Minister Prasanna Ranatunge revealed the Selection Committee has many reservations and concerns about appointing de Silva to the post arising out of sentiments expressed by him in parliament and actions.