Speaker resigns amid controversy over educational credentials

Saturday, 14 December 2024 00:37 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Asoka Sapumal Ranwala

Speaker Asoka Sapumal Ranwala yesterday stepped down from his position following a week-long controversy over his educational qualifications.

Ranwala, a National People’s Power (NPP) Parliamentarian, announced his resignation in a special statement issued yesterday. He acknowledged that questions regarding his academic credentials had surfaced in recent days, emphasising that he had never made false claims about his qualifications.

The Speaker explained that while he holds a doctorate awarded by a research institution affiliated with Japan’s Waseda University, he is currently unable to provide the necessary documents to verify this. He noted that he has requested the documents from the relevant institutions but is unable to produce them immediately.

“Considering the situation which has arisen, and in order to avoid inconveniencing the Government and the people who had placed their trust in us, I have decided to resign from the position of Speaker of Parliament,” Ranwala said.

The controversy began when social media users, including university professors, raised doubts about the validity of Ranwala’s doctorate. The issue escalated after the Sri Lanka Parliament website removed the title Dr. from his profile in the members’ directory.

Ranwala had reportedly used the title Dr. in official introductions prior to contesting the General elections, and it was listed on the Parliament’s website after his election as Speaker. However, the removal of the title further fuelled public suspicion, prompting Opposition parties to demand clarification from the Government.

In his statement, Ranwala assured that he intends to provide the necessary documents as soon as they are available.

Ranwala was elected Speaker of the 10th Parliament on 21 November. However, the controversy surrounding his academic claim cast a shadow over his appointment, intensifying political tensions within Parliament as the Opposition this week called for a no-confidence motion against Ranwala.