New book to bring parliamentary tradition closer to people

By Yohan Perera

“ Parlimenthuwe Balahathkaraya” authored by President’s Secretary Parliamentary Affairs Nadeera Madugalla which was launched recently brings into light unforgettable dramatic happenings in Parliament while it enlightens people on parliamentary tradition.  

This was highlighted by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardene who was the chief guest at the launch. “The book brings people closer to Parliament. Such an exercise has become essential today given the perception people have on the legislature  

The book discusses impactful bills that led to MPs’ expulsion, such as the 1956 act making Sinhala the official language and acts affecting the Tamil language. These highlight public interest in reading about these Acts, prompting readers to explore the Hansard reports.  

In the proportional election system, the issue lies with those seeking votes, not those casting them. A country like Sri Lanka needs this system, with representative, procedural, and associational democracy. Digital media should be emphasized to enhance democracy’s quality. Physical presence alone is insufficient for democratic progress; digital presence is crucial. The book’s insights into democracy will become a social commentary in the future.  

“I believe every citizen has a duty to protect their country, and without fulfilling this duty, our motherland will be insecure. Intimacy and discipline are crucial for this protection. While there are various political views worldwide, democracy is the most important concept. For any state to be secure, democracy must exist and be felt by its people. Protecting democracy is not just the responsibility of Parliament; it is also a duty for every citizen. As part of my civic duty, I am releasing my first book, to help safeguard democracy in our country,” Ms. Madugalla said.  
Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Tiran Alles, State Minister Shehan Semasinghe, Parliamentarians Premnath C. Dolawatte, Eran Wickramaratne, Senior Adviser on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Adviser to the President on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd), Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Commander of Sri Lanka Army General Vikum Liyanage and a number of guests were present.