JVP objects to Thilanga Sumathipala's appointment to COPE

COLOMBO(News 1st) - The name of MP Thilanga Sumathipala has been proposed to the Committee on Public Enterprise to take the place of the recently deceased Chandrasiri Gajadeera. Ananda Kumarasiri, Deputy Speaker: "As per Standing order 127.3 in Parliament, The Select Committee has, on the 21st of October 2019, put forward the name of Thilanga Sumathipala, to take the place of the deceased Chandrasiri Gajadeera." JVP MP Bimal Rathnayake noted that there is an ongoing case against MP Sumathipala at the COPE and as the Speaker, he has the authority to block his appointment as there is an investigation concerning the Cricket Board. He went on to note that his appointment is unethical and an insult to Parliament. I kindly request that his appointment be suspended up until the investigations are completed. Ananda Kumarasiri stated that he will inform the Speaker of the matter. UPFA MP Thilanga Sumathipala: "My membership in the COPE has now been announced. There is no obstacle to its membership. I am disappointed in the statement made by the JVP MP. I would like to reiterate that I have all the necessary legal qualifications to hold membership in the COPE. Sunil Handunnetti: "This report highlights many important facts relating to 23 institutions. At present, the general public has high regard for the Parliament and its committees. But there is one question the people constantly ask. What is the next step, once all these misdoings are revealed? I would like to request you, provide Working Committee with certain legal powers and allow representatives from the AG's department and Supreme Court to attend hearings. When they attend those meetings, they become eyewitnesses to those statements instead of going behind institutions such as the Bribery Commission or FCID for evidence." Ananda Kumarasiri stated that his recommendation is very important and he would notify the Honourable Speaker and take the necessary steps. Minister Arjuna Ranatunga reminded that it has been over a year since the audit report of the Sri Lanka Cricket Board and requested the process to be expedited. Sunil Handunnetti: "We are carrying out a probe on the level of the COPE, into SLC. Further, according to my knowledge, the detailed audit report released by the Auditor-General has been directed to the Speaker. Therefore, if you have the ability, present that report in Parliament. It is very important to the investigations being carried out by COPE."