• Says would remain in the position only till end April this year
• he tendered his resignation to the President on April 5

By Ajith Siriwardana and Yohan Perera

Deputy Speaker Ranjith Siyambalapitiya informed parliament that he would continue to function as the deputy speaker of Parliament following the request of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

He told Parliament making a special statement that the President refused to accept his resignation and requested him to remain in the position to ensure parliamentary democracy at this challenging time.

He said he accepted the President’s request on condition that he would remain in the position only till the end of April this year and would not entertain any privilege or perks entitled to the post of Deputy Speaker.

He said he tendered his resignation to the President on April 5 following the decision of the SLFP to be independent in Parliament and resign from all government positions.