UNP backbenchers protest salary hike

Tuesday, 7 August 2018 00:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Marikkar dismisses MP salary hike proposal as rumor
Calls for legal reforms to punish lawmakers misusing public funds

UNP backbenchers have assured they would vote against a salary increase for Parliamentarians if the issue is taken up in Parliament, and stressed that no final decision has been taken regarding a pay hike.

Addressing a press conference at Sirikotha over the weekend, UNP MP S. M. Marikkar stated that reports had surfaced of such a proposal during a party leaders meeting, but Government lawmakers had held a meeting last week to voice their disagreement. Marikkar said such a proposal has not been approved, and neither has it been given Cabinet approval.

“There’s only a rumour that it has been proposed to the Parliament. The Finance Minister has assured that a proposal for a salary increment has not reached the Treasury, and the President has explained such a move would require Cabinet approval, which has not been given. Whoever has proposed this, we as backbenchers of the UNP are against it. It won’t be approved and we won’t let it,” he said.

The Parliamentarian assured the media that only a rumour of such a proposal has surfaced, and that if there is actually a proposal put forth, they will see to it that it does not get approved. He also added that they are happy about the reassurances given by the President regarding this matter. “The President has stated that such a proposal will not be approved by the cabinet. But a proposal can only be approved if it has been proposed. We are happy about his decision.”

Marikkar pointed out the discrepancies regarding the statement given by the President about his salary, and pointed out how the numbers given by the President are not inclusive of other benefits and allowances. “The President says his salary is Rs. 97,000 but that is not inclusive of his transport allowance, vehicles, fuel, and official residences,” he said.

Marikkar highlighted that it is important to lead by example and irrespective of position or authority, those who misuse public funds should be punished by implementing strict laws, making it difficult for them to be re-elected.