Parliamentary privileges not a cloak for criminal behaviour: TISL

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) reiterated that parliamentary privileges are not a cloak for criminal behaviour for Members of Parliament.

The TISL in a statement on Monday (19) said it was concerned by the recent behaviour of MPS towards law enforcement authorities in parliament, showcasing a pervasive culture of impunity and total disregard for the rule of law.

“The TISL wishes to bring to the attention of the public and the relevant authorities, the provisions in law which enable action to be taken in such cases.whilst the conduct of certain MPS as witnessed in parliament on November 14, 15 and 16 amounts to blatant violations of the code of conduct adopted in April 2018, attempts to sabotage

parliamentary proceedings also constitute offences under the Parliament (Powers & Privileges) Act,” it said.

TISL Executive Director Asoka Obeyesekere said the entire country watched with dismay as their elected representatives engaged in acts of thuggery and intimidation within the parliamentary premises.“at this crucial juncture it is imperative that all law enforcement agencies display independence and send a clear message to those who seek to disregard the law. We are yet to see any action taken by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) regarding the complaint filed by us over allegations of attempts to bribe members of parliament. We are mindful that complacency on the part of law enforcement agencies will cause irreparable harm to public faith in the rule of law and the institutions of democracy,” he said.

TISL calls on the President, the Speaker, the Chief Whips, party leaders and all members of parliament to ensure that steps are taken to hold offenders accountable and deter the recurrence of such behaviour.