‘Wijesiri was paid Rs. 90 mn to resign from seat’

By Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana  

SLPP MP Mahindananda Aluthgamage, who questioned the alleged deal behind the resignation of SJB MP Chaminda Wijesiri where it has been reported that the latter had accepted a sum of Rs 90 million to vacate his seat for person who is next in the SJB list in the Badulla District to come into Parliament, requested the Speaker to look into the matter.  

“It has been reported that Chaminda Wijesiri had accepted a sum of Rs 90 million to vacate his seat for the next person in the list to come into the Parliament. All MPs have been ridiculed by these reports. Therefore this drama has adversely affected all MPs,” MP Aluthgamage said.  

The MP also said there is an issue in swearing in Nayana Wasalathilaka who is next in the SJB list as he is a dual citizen. “There is an issue in swearing in the next person in the list as he is a dual citizen. The Speaker should look into all these matters as it adversely affects all MPs,” Aluthgamage added.  

Meanwhile, SJB MP Sarath Fonseka refuted allegations made by MP Mahindananda Aluthgamage saying that he resigned due to frustration brought about by an issue that came up with the Privileges Committee.  

“Chaminda Wijesiri is not a person who accepts money. He is an MP who used a V8 before he was elected to Parliament and later used an Alto. He resigned over frustration brought about by an issue that came up with the Privileges Committee,” Field Marshal Fonseka said.  

“Allegation that Wasalathilake is a dual citizen is also false. He is only a permanent resident of Australia, “ he added.