Sri Lanka’s opposition leaders and former lawmakers have raised concerns over the suspension of Parliament’s Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary General G.K.A. Chaminda Kumara Kularatne, warning that the decision could set a dangerous precedent for democratic institutions, while parliamentary sources say the move followed allegations of irregularities in his appointment and service.
Parliamentary sources said Kularatne was suspended with immediate effect from January 23 pending the conclusion of a disciplinary inquiry. He assumed duties in the position on September 15, 2023, and further details regarding the suspension have not been officially disclosed.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa criticised the suspension, saying officials in a democracy must be given the right to be heard before any punitive action is taken.
“Audi alteram partem — hear the other side. In any democracy, officials are given a hearing before they are punished. The Speaker interdicting the Deputy Secretary General without even giving a hearing sets a dangerous precedent and makes it feel very personal in nature. This is very concerning and I will strongly register my protest in Parliament on this issue,” Premadasa said.
Opposition MP Shanakiyan Rasamanikkam said the suspension raises serious concerns about due process and institutional integrity.
“Media reports allege this was retaliation linked to the Speaker, carried out without a charge sheet, an inquiry, or even a right to be heard. This is not just interference with a public servant. This is happening inside Parliament itself, a core pillar of democracy. When due process collapses at Parliament, the message sent to the country is deeply dangerous,” Rasamanikkam said.
Former MP Charitha Herath also expressed concern, saying the government appears to be confronting key public institutions despite campaigning on non-interference and respect for the rule of law. He cited previous controversies involving the Auditor General and the Attorney General, warning that continued actions perceived as undemocratic could backfire politically.
However, parliamentary sources have rejected claims that the suspension was politically motivated, saying it followed complaints and a preliminary inquiry into Kularatne’s appointment and conduct. According to these sources, the Parliamentary Staff Advisory Council decided to suspend him pending a formal disciplinary investigation, based on recommendations made by an appointed senior public service investigation officer.
Sources allege that Kularatne provided false information to secure confirmation in his post and obtained a permanent appointment before completing a probationary period, despite previously serving in temporary political appointments under past governments. It is also alleged that he received a salary scale higher than the designated grade, causing financial loss to the state, and violated public service procedural rules.
The Parliamentary Staff Advisory Council reportedly decided that Kularatne would remain suspended until the disciplinary inquiry is completed, and he has also been barred from entering the parliamentary premises during the investigation period. (Newswire)