2026-02-17 / Debate: Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading and Committee Stage 2026-02-17
Deputy Minister Gunasekara spoke in support of a Bill to abolish MPs' pensions, framing it as part of fulfilling the democratic aspirations of the popular uprising that occurred approximately four years prior. He referenced the aftermath of that movement, noting that over 3,000 youth islandwide face legal cases, and stated that the government distinguishes between those who protested lawfully—for whom it seeks justice—and those who committed violent acts, who should face legal consequences. He specifically accused an organised group linked to the Rajapaksa political leadership of attacking peaceful protesters on 9 May, and challenged those leaders to appear before the courts and give evidence rather than make promises about fair investigations. He concluded by declaring the government's commitment to making the current year one of justice, both for victims of the crackdown and for perpetrators of crimes committed during the unrest.
Today is historic. About four years ago, a people’s democratic struggle arose. One key aspiration of that struggle was a renewed, democratic political culture. This Bill to abolish MPs’ pensions is part of translating those aspirations into practice.
After the struggle, over 3,000 youth islandwide faced cases—many prosecuted unjustly by the then rulers. In our democratic government, we seek both to build a new political culture and to deliver justice to all who participated lawfully in the protest, while not condoning violence, injury, arson, or death.
On 9 May, a peaceful protest was attacked by an organized group linked to the Rajapaksas, dispatched from Galle Face to assault protestors. Those leaders now claim they will ensure “fair investigations” if they return to power. We say: before talking, appear before court and give evidence. We trust the judiciary will act fairly. Hundreds of cases are ongoing; in one case, 12 were sentenced to death, with rights of appeal preserved.
This uprising did not occur in a vacuum—it was a response to rulers who bankrupted our economy and brutalized a peaceful protest. As a democratic government, we firmly stand for justice for all who engaged lawfully in the people’s struggle, and for punishment under the law for those who committed crimes. We pledge to make this a year of justice—both to deliver justice and to punish offenders.