• NPP councillors accused of contract violations

A group of opposition  members of the Gampaha Pradeshiya Sabha have alleged that three councilors who were elected representing the National People’s Power (NPP) are  committing financial fraud by carrying out Government contracts in their own names.

Addressing a media briefing, the opposition councilors said that under the relevant provisions, it is prohibited for a Pradeshiya Sabha member to engage in contract work.

They further pointed out that obtaining money through such contracts is a reason for the annulment of a councilor’s seat. Opposition members said they have also lodged a complaint with the Governor of the Western Province regarding the incident.

They also said at the media briefing that steps would be taken to file legal action against the relevant councilors in the future.

Meanwhile, the same group of councilors also accused the Chairperson of the Gampaha Pradeshiya Sabha of wasting public funds by obtaining 500 litres of fuel every month.

They alleged the Chairperson is wasting funds by renting a car on a monthly rental basis of Rs. 250,000. Opposition members claimed that although NPP members obtained the votes from thousands of citizens by promising to save council funds, the Chairman of the Pradeshiya Sabha is receiving more than Rs. 500,000 per month in allowances adding the vehicle he uses is rented at a monthly cost of Rs. 260,000.