Tensions flare at group meeting over ‘Aswesuma’

By Kelum Bandara  

Tensions flared at the government’s parliamentary group meeting on Wednesday as several MPs from Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) engaged in a heated argument with State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe regarding discrepancies in the government’s welfare scheme known as ‘Aswesuma.’  

The issue had previously been brought to the attention of President Ranil Wickremesinghe by the SLPP. During the meeting, MP Sanjeewa Edirimanne of the Kalutara District highlighted that while the previous Samurdhi scheme had provided benefits to 68,000 families, the number had increased to 89,000 under the new ‘Aswesuma’ scheme. However, Edirimanne said that a significant number of eligible individuals had been left out, raising concerns about flaws in the selection process.  

Another MP, Jagath Kumara, representing the Colombo District, also voiced his concerns about the matter, prompting a passionate exchange of words with Minister Semasinghe.  
 MPs Samanpriya Herath and Sampath Athukorale expressed critical views regarding the ‘Aswesuma’ welfare scheme.  

Amidst the escalating tension, President Ranil Wickremesinghe assured the MPs that the raised issues would be addressed.    

• President Ranil Wickremesinghe assured the MPs that the raised issues would be addressed