In a press conference today, former NPP MP Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa declared that the National People's Power (NPP) would throw its weight behind the no-confidence motion aimed at Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardhane, slated to be introduced by the Opposition.
Dr. Jayatissa emphasized that the motion wasn't targeted at the Speaker's conduct within Parliament or his interactions with the Opposition. Instead, it pertained to a Constitutional matter, prompting the NPP to favor the motion against the Speaker.
The crux of the matter, as highlighted, revolved around the exclusion of amendments to the Online Safety Bill recommended by the Attorney General during the Committee Stage. Dr. Jayatissa stressed that the responsibility fell on the Speaker and his staff to ensure the incorporation of all proposed amendments.
According to Dr. Jayatissa, the omission of these amendments constitutes a breach of Parliamentary conventions, warranting the justifiability of the no-confidence motion against the Speaker.
The NPP's stance signals a significant development in the ongoing political landscape, setting the stage for further deliberations and actions regarding the Speaker's position and the legislative process.
