Speaker to address controversy over doctorate credentials soon: Cabinet Spokesman

Wednesday, 11 December 2024 00:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa yesterday confirmed that the Speaker of the Parliament Asoka Ranwala is set to make a ‘responsible’ statement addressing the controversy surrounding his doctorate.

Responding to questions raised at the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, he noted that the Government would decide on a course of action based on the Speaker’s forthcoming clarification to the relevant authorities.

“We will take a position on this matter depending on whether the claims are proven true or false,” Dr. Jayatissa said, whilst acknowledging such allegations were levelled at his qualifications too.

The controversy which garnered widespread public attention, escalated after questions were raised about Ranwala’s academic qualifications on social media platforms. The social media users questioned Ranwala’s claimed PhD in Biochemistry from Japan’s Waseda University. The scrutiny led to further investigations into his credentials, including a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Moratuwa University and his role as Director at the BioGenic Green Technology Research Institute.

Amid mounting pressure, Ranwala’s LinkedIn profile and Wikipedia page were altered, omitting any reference to his doctorate.

Separately, former Election Commission Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya joined the chorus of critics, challenging Ranwala to prove his academic qualifications or step down from his position.

The controversy prompted the Parliament’s official website to remove the title “Dr” from Ranwala’s profile in the members’ directory.