Can Muslim MPs accept portfolios when probe ongoing: SLPP

They resigned in support of Rishad Bathiudeen so that an impartial investigation can be held

By Lahiru Pothmulla  

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) yesterday asked how the Muslim ministers who resigned to make way for an independent investigation over allegations against MP Rishad Bathiudeen can accept portfolios again when the investigations were ongoing.   

AMP Shehan Semasinghe told a media conference that there was a move by the Muslim MPs to be sworn-in in their previous portfolios.   “We only levelled charges against MP Bathiudeen. No credible investigation had been launched over the allegations against him so far. After these Muslim ministers resigned, two of them were sworn-in again even without the knowledge of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. None of the investigations had been completed yet. Court cases are ongoing and the Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) says it will take three months. 

The Premier is also scheduled to appear before the PSC. If that’s the case, how can MPs accept portfolios again,” he asked.   

The MP said these ministers had resigned for narrow political gains on a request made by the Prime Minister. “Is the government trying to re-appoint Bathiudeen as well now,” he asked.