Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Dayasiri Jayasekara has raised concerns over the independence of Speaker Jagath Wickremesinghe, questioning how his salary is being contributed to the National People’s Power (NPP) party fund despite holding a position that is expected to remain neutral.
Speaking at a media briefing, Jayasekara highlighted that the NPP has announced that the salaries of its 159 MPs will be directed to a common party fund. He pointed out that since the Speaker’s role is meant to be independent, it is problematic if his salary is also being funneled into party finances.
He further questioned whether the integrity of the Speaker’s position is compromised when someone in such an impartial role financially contributes to a political party.
Adding to his concerns, Jayasekara claimed that Speaker Wickremesinghe has not taken residence in the official Speaker’s residence, and his whereabouts remain largely unknown, raising further questions about transparency.
His remarks have sparked a broader debate on the neutrality of parliamentary officials, with growing calls for clarity on the Speaker’s independence and financial affiliations.
