2026-02-19 / Standing Order 27(2) Matter: Mahaweli Development Project and Land Allocation - Procedural Exchanges

Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna

2026-02-19

Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a procedural matter regarding seating arrangements in Parliament, referencing Standing Order 3(2). He questioned why Hon. Sritharan continues to occupy a front-row seat reserved for party leaders and leaders of the opposition, arguing that others with greater seniority should be given precedence. The speaker called on the Hon. Speaker to address this seating allocation issue, framing it in the context of Hon. Rasamanickam's recent appointment as a party leader and his subsequent exercise of rights under Standing Order 27(2).

Hon. Speaker, Hon. Rasamanickam asked a Question today under Standing Order 27(2) because he has been appointed as a party leader. I previously raised a point with you under Standing Order 3(2). The front-row seats are reserved for the Leader of the Opposition and the relevant parties. Why is Hon. Sritharan still being given that seat? There are others more senior than him. Please address this.