The Opposition has formally handed over a no‑confidence motion against Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara to Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne in Parliament today (21).
The Opposition confirmed the move, noting that the submission was made with the signatures of several Opposition MPs, marking a coordinated challenge to the Minister’s position.
The motion comes in direct response to the Negombo Prison unrest on July 5 and 6, where clashes left a number of prison officers and inmates dead and several others seriously injured.
The Opposition argues that Minister Nanayakkara failed to fulfill his responsibility and accountability for ensuring the safety of those in custody.
According to the motion, the Minister has not properly carried out duties entrusted to him under Extraordinary Gazette No. 2412/08 of November 25, 2024, which include formulating and implementing policies on prison reforms, administration and rehabilitation, developing prison infrastructure, and reducing congestion.
These lapses, the Opposition claims, directly contributed to the crisis. (Newswire)