2026-02-17 / Debate: Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading and Committee Stage 2026-02-17
Hon. Rajakaruna argued in favour of retaining MP pensions while proposing a modified qualifying period of 10–15 years, warning that removing pension entitlements entirely would deter qualified candidates and restrict Parliament to wealthy individuals. He cautioned against blanket condemnation of all 225 MPs and noted unequal financial resources among political parties. He challenged the government on unfulfilled electoral promises — including electricity tariff reductions, fuel price cuts, VAT removals on essentials, abolition of the Executive Presidency, and a new Constitution — citing Verité Research's "Anura Meter" as indicating approximately 10% completion of presidential pledges. He also tabled a letter relating to a preliminary inquiry involving Parliament's Deputy Secretary-General and Chief of Staff, Mr. G.K.A.C.K. Kularatne, and expressed concern about recommendations affecting the Clerk of Parliament, Ms. Kushani Rohanadeera, warning against partisan interference in independent institutions including Parliament itself.
Hon. Deputy Speaker, our Party Leader has clearly stated our position: MPs should have pensions, but with a more reasonable qualifying period—say 10 or 15 years—to ensure professionals and capable people are not discouraged from entering Parliament. Without a pension or social security, you risk narrowing Parliament to only the wealthy elite.
Not all MPs are thieves. Please do not paint all 225 with the same brush. Also, some governing parties have enormous funds to support their MPs; not every party has that luxury. Do not pretend otherwise.
You promised to reduce electricity tariffs by 33%, to cut fuel prices, to remove VAT on essential and educational items, to abolish the Executive Presidency, to bring a new Constitution. Where are those promises? Verité Research’s own “Anura Meter” shows only around 10% of the President’s pledges have been completed. Please check it.
Separately, I table a letter now placed in the Library concerning a preliminary inquiry into the Deputy Secretary-General and Chief of Staff of Parliament, Mr. G.K.A.C.K. Kularatne, with recommendations including his temporary removal and even suggestions affecting the Clerk of Parliament, Ms. Kushani Rohanadeera. We will not accept attempts—direct or indirect—to bring independent institutions, including Parliament, under partisan control.