Speaking in Parliament, Rajapaksa said that mayors, urban council members, Pradeshiya Sabha chairpersons and Members of Parliament must be safeguarded without delay, citing recent incidents that have raised serious concerns about their safety.
He pointed to the recent killing of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman, noting that the victim had reportedly requested protection from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) prior to the incident, but adequate security was not granted. Rajapaksa expressed strong criticism over the remarks made by Minister of Police Ananda Wijepala in Parliament, accusing him of attempting to justify the crime by referring to the victim’s past after his death.
Rajapaksa highlighted that the tragedy could have been prevented if the security request had been heeded, stating that proactive measures should be taken rather than responding only after violence occurs.
He further alleged that comments made by Deputy Minister of Police Sunil Watagala — claiming daytime shootings would decline — had led to suspicions that such attacks may be taking place to serve political interests.
Rajapaksa reiterated his call for the government to act immediately to ensure the safety of all elected representatives, warning that failure to do so would continue to put lives at risk.
