• Claims Govt fearing defections within ruling side 

The Government's proposal to introduce legislation aimed at cancelling the parliamentary seats of parliamentarians who switch parties has triggered fresh political debate, with the main parliamentary opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) claiming the move is being rushed due to fears of defections within the ruling side.

When queried by The Daily Morning as to whether they would support the proposed legislation, SJB General Secretary and MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that the matter would first need to be discussed within the party’s Working Committee before a final decision is taken.

He also alleged that the Government was attempting to fast-track the legislation because it was uncertain about the loyalty of some of its own MPs. “The Government is in a hurry to bring this legislation because they are not sure about their MPs. Some of their MPs are going to leave the Government.”

General Secretaries of the SLPP and the UNP, attorneys Sagara Kariyawasam and Thalatha Athukorale, respectively, were unavailable for comment.

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said on 26 May that the Government expected to present legislation soon to revoke the parliamentary membership of legislators who defect for personal gain in violation of the mandate given by voters. “We expect to present and enact legislation very soon to revoke the parliamentary seats of those who defect contrary to the people’s mandate.”