Archchuna's Statements Lead to Live Broadcast Ban

COLOMBO (News 1st); Over the next eight parliamentary days, the live broadcast of statements made by MP Ramanathan Archchuna will be suspended. 

This decision was announced by Speaker of Parliament Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, following numerous complaints about Archchuna's use of derogatory and offensive language both inside and outside Parliament, particularly on social media.

Speaker Wickramaratne explained that MP Archchuna's statements have targeted individuals, groups, and organizations with highly controversial and insulting remarks, causing significant distress. 

Complaints have been received from various individuals, social organizations, and members of both the government and opposition, expressing their strong disapproval and concern over these statements.

Despite multiple warnings and advice to refrain from such behavior, Archchuna has failed to comply, said the Speaker of the Parliament.

The Speaker emphasized that these actions are not only a violation of parliamentary decorum and the Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament but also a threat to national unity and reconciliation.

As a result, the Speaker has ordered that no statements made by MP Archchuna during the parliamentary sessions on March 20 and 21, April 8, 9, and 10, and May 6, 7, and 8, 2025, be broadcast live on audiovisual or social media platforms. 

Additionally, any derogatory remarks made by Archchuna will be expunged from the Hansard records.

The Speaker further stated that the content of Archchuna's speeches and statements during this suspension period will be closely monitored, and the temporary suspension may be lifted if there is a significant improvement in his conduct.