In a significant development, Parliament today passed a private member’s motion to abolish the pensions of Members of Parliament. The motion was put forward by New Democratic Front (NDF) MP Ravi Karunanayake, who argued that the current pension scheme for MPs is an undue financial burden on taxpayers and lacks justification, given the often short tenures of parliamentary service.
During the debate, Karunanayake emphasized the need for greater fiscal responsibility and fairness in public spending, pointing out that many hardworking citizens struggle with inadequate pension schemes while MPs receive generous lifetime benefits after serving only a few years in office.
The motion gained bipartisan support, with several lawmakers agreeing that public funds should be allocated toward essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure rather than lifetime benefits for elected officials. However, some MPs voiced concerns about the long-term implications of this decision, arguing that it could discourage qualified individuals from entering politics.
With the motion now passed, further steps will be required to implement the change, including possible amendments to existing pension laws governing parliamentary benefits.
Pensions are not only paid in Sri Lanka for former Parliamentarians, it’s paid in many countries. Like India Pakistan, Bangladesh, Singapore and many Commonwealth Countries, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh pays much higher than our country,
Singapore pays much higher, while other countries like America, UK, Canada, Germany also pays substantial higher gratuity and pensions to name a few.
India gives other benefits such as Medical and Free Travel in Train First Class and ther transport.
In Sri Lanka this has become a slogan, with no significance. Some of the former MPP solely depend on their livelihood, who has never made extra money or business. Not like those who robbed bank and involved in forgery.
some have served in Local Government Institutions and Provincial Council before entering into Parliament with Long and meritorious service to the people and country not involving in any fraudulent activities to be reckon with.
In India pensions are not paid to those who have assets over 100 million Indian Rupees, WHYNOT Sri Lanka do a survey of formers members of Parliament, whether they need pension or not and their financial stability. This can be done through their Grama Niladharies and other Government Authority. May some need additional payment for them.
noted