November 26, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya underscored the importance of restoring public confidence in Parliament during the inaugural session of an Awareness Workshop on Parliamentary Procedures for new Members of the 10th Parliament, held yesterday (25).
Addressing the gathering, the Premier extended her congratulations to the newly elected MPs, emphasizing the historic significance of this Parliament. “This 10th Parliament is unique for several reasons, including the highest-ever representation of women, with 22 female MPs, and a notable turnover of 162 newly elected members,” she remarked.
Dr. Amarasuriya noted that the turnover reflects the public’s strong message against previous practices, calling on MPs to prioritize their role as representatives of the people. “To restore Parliament’s status as a supreme institution, we must act with awareness of the responsibilities entrusted to us. This is an opportunity to rebuild trust and address public disapproval of past Parliamentary conduct,” she added.
She highlighted the importance of the workshop in equipping MPs to innovate Parliamentary practices while upholding traditions, urging all members to meet the expectations of the electorate and serve as a turning point in Sri Lanka’s political landscape.
The session was attended by Speaker Dr. Ashoka Ranwala, Deputy Speaker Dr. Mohamed Rizvi Salley, Deputy Committee Chairman Hemalee Weerasekara, Leader of the House Minister Bimal Ratnayake, Chief Organizer of the Government Party Minister Dr. Nalin Nalinda Jayatissa, and other Parliamentary dignitaries.
