Karu Jayasuriya Urges Reconsideration of MP Pension Abolition 📈

Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has formally requested President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to reconsider the proposed repeal of the Parliamentary Pensions Act, warning of long-term risks to Sri Lanka's democratic representation. • Core Concerns & Risks The move could restrict politics to the wealthy, business interests, or those with illicit funding. Jayasuriya noted that while elite figures dominated pre-1948, post-1956 reforms allowed citizens from modest backgrounds to enter public life—a progress now under threat. • Impact on Former Parliamentarians While a few use pensions for social and charitable activities, the majority of the 512 former MPs rely on this as their primary income source after leaving office. • Legislative Status The Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill was presented on January 7, 2026. The Supreme Court concluded hearings on January 22 regarding petitions challenging its constitutionality; a determination is pending. • Next Steps The Second Reading of the Bill is expected by late February 2026. Jayasuriya urged that inclusiveness be prioritized as the government moves toward drafting a new Constitution. _Note: Based on provisional legislative data and recent judicial developments._