Sumanthiran warns of discreet move to deprive MPs of Parliament seat

TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran has expressed fears that illegal moves will be made to keep away elected MPs from Parliament by getting an administrative body to hold them in custody .

 

His comments came in Parliament after Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara requested the Speaker not to allow MP Rishard Bathiudeen, who was detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), to attend Parliament until the investigations against him are completed.

 

But,  Mr Sumanthiran as well as other MPs pointed out that the move will be illegal and will give bad precedence. Minister Weerasekara said if MP Bathiudeen made any statement in Parliament concerning the ongoing investigations using parliamentary privileges, it may hinder the investigations and allow others, who would have to be arrested in the future based on the investigations, to flee the country or be prepared to evade arrest.

 

However,  Mr Sumanthiran pointed out that the same could be used any opposition MP, and thereby they will be deprived of their seat for the failure to come to Parliament for three months.

 

MP Lakshman Kiriella pointed out that during 24 hours the government has made three different claims as to why Mr Bathiudeen cannot be brought to Parliament.  He said that the party leaders meeting they were told they are awaiting the PCR test report.

 

MP Mujibar Rahaman pointed out that though the PCR tests were done two days back the report had not been given. MP Bathiudeen and his brother are being held under a 90 day detention order for their allegedly involvement with those responsible for the Easter Sunday attack.