MP Absent : No Debate on Iran-Israel Conflict

COLOMBO (News 1st): A scheduled parliamentary debate on the escalating Iran-Israel conflict was abruptly halted today (18) due to the absence of MP Ajith P. Perera, who had submitted the motion.

Earlier in the day, 20 opposition MPs signed a formal request urging Parliament to hold a debate on the matter, citing its national and international significance.

MP Ajith P. Perera (SJB) had confirmed his intention to present the motion, stating:

“Under Standing Order 19(3), this debate can be taken up today at 3:30 PM. This is a matter of national importance.”

Despite initial resistance, the Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Rathnayake, expressed conditional support:

“Hector Appuhamy has already submitted an adjournment motion. Therefore, we cannot have two adjournment debates. However, if you are willing to take this debate from 3:30 to 5:30 instead of your adjournment motion, we are agreeable. Also, we must note that this debate was already held yesterday.”

Tensions rose as Rathnayake criticized internal dynamics within the opposition:

“I believe the issue in this Parliament is that the Leader of the Opposition has more leaders within his party than necessary... consult with your ‘experts’ before putting yourself in trouble.”

Ultimately, the Speaker ruled that the debate would proceed from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

However, when the time came, MP Ajith P. Perera was not present in the chamber, leading to the collapse of the motion.

Minister Wijitha Herath, addressing the situation, stated:

“If the MP who submitted the adjournment motion is not present, then there is no motion. This is not something new—it’s very simple.”

The Deputy Speaker concluded the session by adjourning Parliament until Thursday at 9:30 AM, citing procedural constraints.