Dr. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri, a former candidate of the National People’s Power (NPP), has called for Speaker Ashoka Ranwala to either resign or be removed from his position if he is found to have provided false information about his educational qualifications. In a statement posted on social media, Dewasiri demanded that the Speaker clarify the status of his degrees, stressing that the public has a right to know if Ranwala has misrepresented his qualifications.
Dewasiri highlighted that if Speaker Ranwala has lied about possessing degrees that he does not have, this would constitute a significant breach of trust. He pointed out that the Speaker’s actions would not only be an error in judgment but also a serious offense, particularly in the context of a nation that values transparency and accountability. Dewasiri argued that the Speaker’s alleged actions were not just a matter of false claims but an attempt to maintain a prominent political position through deception, which he believes is far worse than the initial falsehood itself.
In his remarks, Dewasiri further emphasized the severity of the issue, comparing the situation to a cricket team facing fast bowlers without adequate protection. He implied that the government, by allowing such a figure to hold the position of Speaker, is vulnerable to public scrutiny and criticism, especially when it claims to uphold integrity and transparency.
Dewasiri’s call for action comes amid growing concerns about the credibility of public officials and the need for strict adherence to ethical standards in positions of power. He urged the government to investigate the matter thoroughly and take necessary steps to address the issue, warning that failure to do so would only undermine public confidence in the leadership.
I agree that the Speaker should come clean on this issue but not necessarily demand resignation