SJB protests against Port City Bill

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Samagi Jana Balavegaya staged a silent protest opposite Parliament on Thursday (20) morning against the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill.

Protestors were seen setting fire to the bill, calling it a threat to the country's sovereignty.

Sri Lanka Police visiting the location informed the protestors that they cannot engage in such activities as it is against the existing regulations impose to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

SJB MPs alleged the government is attempting to secure the passage of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill using the prevailing pandemic situation.

'We will defeat this bill and change it under our administration when we are elected," said SJB leader Sajith Premadasa, who is also Sri Lanka's Opposition Leader.

He said referred to the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill as a treacherous act.

SJB MP Buddhika Pathirana said the passage of the bill would pave the way for another independence struggle in Sri Lanka.

"For centuries were ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch and English. What the Chinese are doing is similar to that. We will have to wait for another 400 years to drive them away," said Lakshman Kiriella, another MP from the Samagi Jana Balavegaya.