Opposition MP's proposal to curtail powers of the President creates heat in Sri Lanka parliament

A personal proposal moved by Sri Lanka's opposition United National Party (UNP) parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayaka aiming to curb the powers of the President and the Prime Minister created a heated environment in the parliament today.



MP Karunanayaka proposed that the President and the Prime Minister should not hold portfolios so as to enhance the efficiency of the administration and for better review.

Government Chief Whip Dinesh Gunawardena asked the Speaker of the parliament not to allow this proposal since it was violating parliamentary standing orders.

Democratic National Alliance (DNA) MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake pointed out that the parliament had discussed presidential powers in previous instances as well.

MP Ravi Karunanayaka said that the government opposition to his proposal cannot be accepted since his was only a proposal and aimed at enhancing efficiency.

Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa said he will express his opinion later and until then the proposal will be held.