On Tuesday, March 5th, the Deputy General Secretary of Parliament received a significant document: a no-confidence motion against Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.
The motion, signed by 44 parliamentarians, including prominent figures such as Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella, and several Members of Parliament, outlines various grievances against the Speaker.
The motion alleges that Speaker Abeywardena disregarded recommendations from the Supreme Court regarding key sections of the Online Safety Bill. Specifically, Sections 13, 17, 20, 33 (6), 34 (1), 35 (1), 21, 22, and 33 are cited as areas where the Speaker purportedly neglected the court's advice.
In addition, he is accused of allowing the Third Reading of the bill to proceed without a vote and ignoring the Chief Opposition Whip's request for a division at the Committee Stage.
