Former MP Dr. Ashu Marasinghe says that the present Parliament has failed to fulfill its responsibility in the face of the COVID-19 risk. Countries around the world took action to control the COVID-19 crisis through their Cabinets and Parliaments.
Countries such as England, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel and Malaysia acted on the advice of the Cabinet. We also say that the Executive and the Cabinet of the country should act in accordance with the advice of the medical experts to mitigate the risk of COVID-19.
No country that has controlled the spread of COVID-19 virus has done so by relying solely on doctors. “I urge all Members of Parliament to read the Constitution frequently. According to Article 43 of the Constitution, the Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka is accountable to Parliament. Today we do not see such accountability. Everywhere in the world the Governments are fighting waves of COVID-19. Parliament has the power to pass laws and to impeach. Empower the Cabinet and follow the medical professionals’ instructions. These committees have proven to be a failure.
In addition, we propose that the Party Leaders in Parliament meet to discuss the situation from time to time. Some members of the Opposition are showing undue anxiety over the entry of our Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe into the UNP Parliamentary seat.
On May 10, the leader explained how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Working Committee unanimously decided that the Leader should go to Parliament because the Opposition is not talking about the real issues in the country at this time.
If the Opposition wants to join the Government, that is their choice.
Our decision does not involve them, the people gave power to Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna. It is their job to bring others together. Some of those MPs are ready to get more privileges such as the jeeps that were purchased for them.
What can those who have made deals to buy cars and jeeps do? Finally, I would like to thank all the staff, health personnel, security personnel, police officers, Government officials and all those who are working in the wake of this COVID-19 pandemic.”