In the wake of MP Mano Ganesan testing positive

• Says will ensure the safety of all MPs

By Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana

Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga yesterday requested that all the SJB (Samagi Jana Balawegaya) MPs be subjected to PCR tests to ensure the safety of others in the House. 

Minister Ranatunga requested Deputy Speaker Ranjith Siyambalapitiya who was in the chair to subject SJB MPs to PCR tests in the wake of MP Mano Ganesan being tested COVID-19 positive. “MP Mano Ganesan has already tested COVID positive.  I request that all SJB MPs be subjected to PCR tests in this situation. Such an action will ensure the safety of all the MPs,” he said,

SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna who responded questioned as to how a certain person could have a birthday party in Anuradhapura with 1,000 guests. “We have been told that someone is hosting a lunch in Anuradhapura with thousands of guests. Won’t these functions result in spreading of COVID-19?” he questioned.

Earlier, MP Rohini Kaviratne questioned whether it was safe to have a function in connection with the opening of Sandahiru Seya in Anuradhapura. “You blame us for holding a protest saying it was a risk, but you also do the same by holding functions in Anuradhapura,” she said.

State Minister Shehan Semasinghe who responded said SJB has a grudge against Buddhism. “Opening ceremony of a Cheithiya cannot be compared to a protest,” he said.