The government released a list of 43 Members of Parliament (MPs) who received compensation for damages to their properties during the 2022 Aragalaya period, which saw widespread protests and unrest.
According to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, a total of Rs. 1.22 billion in compensation was disbursed to these MPs, as their properties were destroyed by arson during the period of civil unrest.Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, expressed concerns over the integrity of some damage assessments, stating that certain regional and district secretaries had faced pressure to overestimate the extent of the damage.
This revelation has sparked questions regarding the accuracy of the reported losses and the fairness of the compensation process.
Dr. Jayatissa further clarified that the maximum compensation available for total damage caused by disasters is capped at Rs. 2.5 million, emphasizing the government’s strict guidelines in assessing such claims.
The disclosure comes as the public remains critical of the compensation process, with many questioning the appropriateness of such large sums being awarded to MPs amidst the ongoing economic crisis in the country.
The list, which has been shared with the public, contains names of MPs who were granted compensation for the destruction of their properties, sparking further debate regarding accountability and transparency in the distribution of government funds.
As investigations into the claims continue, the government has promised to ensure that any instances of overcompensation or misreporting will be thoroughly examined.
