Select Committee approved to probe Ex-EC members

Tuesday, 18 July 2023 00:59 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Party Leaders yesterday unanimously approved a motion to establish a select committee with the purpose of investigating whether the actions of former members of the Election Commission have violated the privileges of Members of Parliament (MPs).

The committee will also be responsible for providing appropriate recommendations based on its findings.

According to Parliament Secretary General Kushani Rohanadeera, the motion was approved by party leaders during their meeting with Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardene presiding over the session.

The motion was initially submitted to the Speaker by 14 Members of Parliament, citing the former members of the Elections Commission, namely N. G. Punchihewa, S. B. Divaratne, N. M. Mohammed, K. K. P Pathirana, and P. S. M. Charles, are answerable to the House in accordance with the provisions of Article 104 B (3) of the constitution. It further stated that these members have fulfilled their responsibilities as interim members as outlined in Article 30 (4) of the 21st Amendment to the Constitution.

According to reports, the main opposition party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has raised objections to the establishment of the committee, asserting that independent commissions should not be subject to interference. The party is expected to oppose the move.