Ex-MPs Complain to Global Bodies Over Sri Lanka Parliament Scandals

The Forum of Ex-Members of Parliament has taken a significant step by bringing serious allegations of misconduct within Sri Lanka's legislative body to the international stage. By lodging complaints with the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, these former MPs are signaling a deep concern for the state of governance and democratic principles in the country.

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The Forum of Ex-Members of Parliament has lodged complaints with the International Parliament Union, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding four incidents related to alleged illegal and unethical actions, various forms of harassment, and irregularities within Parliament.

The specific issues raised, such as the "illegal and unethical" revocation of pensions and the "illegal and malicious" suspension of the Deputy Secretary-General's duties, point to a breakdown in established procedures and a potential abuse of power. The article highlights the forum's assertion that these actions undermine the independence and fairness of parliamentary administration. The fact that these complaints are being aired internationally suggests a perceived lack of recourse or a desire for external scrutiny, which is often a last resort when domestic channels are seen as insufficient.

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The suspension of the Deputy Secretary-General's duties was carried out based on a preliminary investigation lacking proper legal authority, and this action severely undermines democracy, administrative justice, and institutional independence in the Parliament of Sri Lanka.

From a Sri Lankan perspective, such actions within Parliament are particularly concerning. The Forum's reference to the "disruption" in administrative processes and the failure to ensure a "safe, independent, and professional work environment" resonates with ongoing discussions about institutional integrity. The call for immediate intervention to uphold parliamentary democracy and good governance underscores the gravity with which these matters are viewed by those who have served in the legislature. This situation is not merely an internal administrative dispute; it is framed as a challenge to the very foundations of Sri Lanka's democratic institutions, demanding attention both domestically and internationally.

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The Parliamentary Staff Consultative Committee does not have the legal authority to exercise such disciplinary powers, and that action is highly contrary to ethical conduct.