Assassination Plots, Underworld Links Raised In Parliament

COLOMBO (News 1st); A wave of concern swept through Parliament this week as lawmakers from both sides of the aisle raised alarms over the growing threats to elected officials, following the recent assassination of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa highlighted the gravity of the situation, pointing to what he described as a dangerous convergence of state mechanisms with underworld and extremist elements. 

He emphasized that the current climate has created an environment where public representatives are increasingly vulnerable, and reiterated that a formal request for a security assessment of provincial councillors, chairpersons, and Members of Parliament had been submitted months ago. 

The lack of progress on this front, he noted, raises serious questions about the state's ability to protect its own officials.

The assassination of the Weligama Chairman on a public day has intensified calls for accountability. Premadasa demanded clarity on when the perpetrators would be apprehended and when meaningful security measures would be implemented for those at risk.

Chief Government Whip and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa responded by confirming that investigative teams have been deployed to probe the incident. He stated that police are currently analyzing phone records and other data linked to the case. The government remains hopeful that the suspects, including those who orchestrated the attack, will be arrested soon.

Adding to the tension, MP Jagath Withana of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya informed Parliament of a confidential report from the Inspector General of Police. The report, addressed to the DIG of Kalutara, allegedly identifies an individual involved in a plot to assassinate the MP as he exits his residence. Withana urged the Speaker and fellow MPs to take immediate action to ensure the safety of all elected officials.

The Speaker acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and requested that the MP submit the report in writing for formal review.