A special discussion on the security of Opposition Members of Parliament was held yesterday (31) in Parliament, under the chairmanship of Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickremerathna, and with the participation of IGP Priyantha Weerasuriya.
The meeting was attended by Opposition and SJB leader Sajith Premadasa and several party leaders and MPs representing the Opposition. During the discussion, they requested the Speaker to take immediate steps to ensure security for all Opposition MPs.
The Speaker stated that the IGP had already been informed to take necessary action regarding all requests for security made by MPs.
He explained that although the government has made a policy decision regarding the security of Members of Parliament, he had taken steps beyond that policy framework to address urgent concerns. Accordingly, security arrangements have already been provided for some MPs, he noted.
During the meeting the Speaker also instructed the IGP to take necessary steps regarding the new requests made by Opposition MPs at the discussion.
Commenting at the meeting, IGP Weerasuriya said he would inform the President and the Minister of Public Security about the requests made concerning the matter.
Opposition MPs who participated in the meeting emphasised that all Opposition members should be provided with security as a priority, enabling them to carry out their political activities in a safe environment without hindrance. They further proposed that a threat assessment report be prepared afterward to determine further action.
Also present at the special discussion were Parliament’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary-General Chaminda Kularatne, Serjeant-at-Arms Kushan Jayaratne, and a group of officials representing the Police.