2026-02-17 / Debate: Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading and Committee Stage 2026-02-17
## Summary
Hon. Nihal Galappaththi spoke in support of the National People's Power (NPP) government, defending it against Opposition criticism and asserting the government's commitment to fulfilling electoral promises. He argued that the NPP's two-thirds parliamentary majority represents a historic mandate, referencing a Verité Research report as evidence of the government's performance rather than arrogance, as the Opposition had claimed. Drawing on his 24 years in Parliament since 1994, he contrasted his own conduct with that of other politicians, criticising representatives who sought security details, appointed relatives as staff, and failed to honour promises to constituents. He also highlighted the substantial growth in MP remuneration over that period — from a basic salary of Rs. 13,250 in 1994 to a total monthly package of approximately Rs. 400,000 — as context for his broader accountability argument. Two portions of his speech were expunged on the order of the Chair.
Hon. Deputy Speaker, there is a saying: “No matter how loudly the dogs bark, the cart keeps moving.” That is true. Today we also face—
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—an Opposition that is paralysed. This is not a promise we are breaking; it is a promise we are keeping for the people and for our children, for the wellbeing of the country. This is a historic proposal—a transformation never before seen in our parliamentary history—and it is we, the National People’s Power government, who are making it.
Not every citizen with a vote can become a public representative. There are a fixed number of such positions in Parliament, Provincial Councils and local bodies. Those who come, come after making many promises at people’s doors. Once seated, they seek protection: guns and security—because they cannot face the people after breaking promises. Throughout my 24 years in Parliament since 1994, we have not taken any security; we serve because we came by the people’s vote.
This morning,
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they said the Government is becoming arrogant due to a Verité Research report. Not arrogance—we are honoured, because we can fulfil people’s promises swiftly. This is a historic victory for the people.
For the first time, with a two‑thirds majority, the NPP government of 159 has been formed to serve the country and the people. Whatever obstacle comes, we will fulfil our duties. When I came in 1994, an MP’s basic salary was Rs. 13,250. Today the basic is Rs. 58,285, and with monthly, consolidated, driver, telephone, travel, office, fuel, meeting and committee allowances—excluding staff—an MP receives nearly Rs. 400,000. Staff have separate payments. Many appointed their own children and relatives as staff. We have never set such examples. We will keep our promises—tomorrow, the day after and in the future—and rebuild the country you destroyed.
Thank you, Hon. Deputy Speaker.