Several opposition political parties in Sri Lanka have raised objections to the proposed motion to remove Police Chief Deshabandu Tennakoon from office, alleging that the process violates parliamentary standing orders.
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), and the New Democratic Front (NDF) have all expressed their dissent.
SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara stated that while they do not oppose a motion against the Police Chief, they object to the manner in which it is being presented, claiming it contradicts standing orders.
The opposition leaders have pointed out that Standing Order 91E explicitly prohibits parliamentary debate on matters that are sub judice (under judicial consideration).
The government spokesperson has countered that while standing orders prohibit discussion on matters under judicial consideration, there is also a provision allowing any motion to be taken up for debate at the discretion of the Speaker.
A motion to appoint a committee to investigate the allegations against the Police Chief is scheduled to be presented in Parliament on the 8th.