Speaker of Parliament Ashoka Ranwala revealed that a significant number of luxury vehicles remain unused as many Members of Parliament (MPs) and ministers refuse to use them, citing their low fuel efficiency and unsuitability for Sri Lanka’s current economic conditions.
Speaking to journalists at an event held at the Nagananda International Buddhist Studies Institute, the Speaker emphasized the impracticality of these vehicles. “A large stock of luxury vehicles has been parked because they are not fuel-efficient and do not suit this country,” he said. “Many MPs and ministers have declined to use them for this reason. Even though the Speaker has been allocated vehicles, none are being used due to their high fuel consumption.”
Ranwala clarified that, to date, no MP has officially requested luxury vehicles through Parliament. He also highlighted the importance of public officials aligning with the expectations of the people. “All MPs and ministers, whether from the government or the opposition, must make sacrifices in line with what the public expects of us,” he added.
Luxury Vehicles to Be Auctioned
Addressing questions about the fate of the unused vehicles, Ranwala stated that auctioning them is under consideration as part of a broader national-level decision. “The auctioning of these luxury vehicles is being discussed, and it’s a decision that will benefit the nation,” he said.
No Requests for Official Residences
Ranwala also noted that ministers have not requested official residences. Instead, government-owned houses are currently being utilized for public purposes rather than for the personal use of ministers. “These properties are maintained by the government, and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure their upkeep,” he explained.
The Speaker’s remarks reflect growing awareness among public officials of the need to adopt more sustainable and fiscally responsible practices amid the country’s ongoing economic challenges.
