UNP and SJB calls for an adjournment debate on Gota’s Throne Speech

Both the UNP and SJB have requested an adjournment debate on the President’s Policy Statement scheduled to be delivered by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s on Jan 18.

Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Chief Opposition Whip and Kandy District MP Lakshman Kiriella have made separate requests to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and Leader of the House Dinesh Gunawardena that an adjournment debate be held on the Presidential policy statement previously called the Throne Speech.

Wickremesinghe has requested the Speaker to consult party leaders and allocate Jan 19 and 20 and if necessary 21 for the Debate.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa prorogued Parliament with effect from Dec 12. The House is scheduled to reconvene on Jan 18.

As per Westminster traditions and in accordance with constitutional provisions, the President presents the government’s policy statement at the ceremonial first session of Parliament when it meets after a prorogation.