Speaker stands firm on controversial ruling amid opposition backlash

• Speaker’s ruling reaffirms supremacy of Parliament -Govt  
• Opposition says ruling sets a bad precedent

By Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana  

 Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena rebuffed yesterday the opposition’s request to retract his recent ruling on the domestic debt restructuring programme (DDR). Despite strong objections from the opposition, the Speaker defended his decision, asserting that he had thoroughly considered legal advice before issuing the ruling on August 9.  

The ruling in question stated that the judiciary lacks the authority to issue orders or judgements against resolutions passed by the Legislature. Opposition MPs raised concerns that this ruling could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to a clash between Parliament and the judiciary and triggering a constitutional crisis.  
Jathika Jana Balawegaya (JJB) MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who initiated the request for withdrawal, argued that the ruling could prevent the judiciary from delivering judgements in future cases. Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella accused the Speaker of influencing the judiciary by issuing the ruling ahead of a judgement on the domestic debt restructuring.  

Leader of the House Susil Premajaynatha countered these claims, stating that the Speaker’s ruling reaffirmed the supremacy of Parliament and did not challenge the judiciary’s authority.  

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva emphasized that challenging the Speaker’s rulings requires a motion of no confidence. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions within the parliamentary landscape.