Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne announced in Parliament today that a media ban would be imposed on MP Ramanathan Archchuna from tomorrow (March 20) until May 8. The Speaker also stated that any remarks made by the MP in Parliament during this period would be expunged from Hansard.
This decision follows numerous complaints from individuals and organizations regarding statements made by MP Archchuna about various individuals and communities. “We are compelled to take action as the MP has repeatedly ignored my requests to refrain from making defamatory remarks,” the Speaker said.
As a result, MP Archchuna’s speeches in Parliament on March 20, 21, April 8, 9, 10, and May 6, 7, and 8 will be barred from live broadcast due to the controversial nature of his statements, the Speaker announced.
The decision comes in response to derogatory and insulting remarks made by the MP, which the Speaker deemed harmful to national unity and reconciliation.
Dr. Archchuna has faced criticism from various individuals, including women, as well as social and religious groups, for making degrading, inappropriate, and controversial statements targeting them. These individuals, social organizations, and several political parties, including both government and opposition representatives, have lodged formal complaints with him, expressing their strong disapproval, shock, and disappointment. The Speaker has informed Parliament that numerous requests have been made for appropriate action to be taken.
Using his position as a public representative in Parliament, Dr Archchuna has made deeply offensive remarks targeting individuals unable to respond, other public representatives, and various external social and religious organizations. These statements, made using highly inappropriate language, have had a profound impact on the personal lives of those involved. The Speaker strongly condemned these derogatory remarks.
The Speaker stressed that such remarks, made by a public representative who holds the privilege of representing Parliament, disrupt the institution’s dignity and cause significant dishonor. Moreover, these statements are harmful to national unity and reconciliation.
Although the Speaker had repeatedly warned the MP to refrain from making such remarks, he noted that the MP had completely disregarded these warnings and failed to alter his behavior.
The Speaker particularly emphasized that the MP’s actions violate the standing orders of Parliament, the provisions of the Parliament (Privileges and Powers) Act, and the code of conduct for Members of Parliament. These actions also contradict the long-established traditions of Parliament.
Furthermore, the Speaker stated that any occasional derogatory, indecent, and vulgar remarks made by Dr Archchuna would be removed from the Hansard records.
The Speaker also informed Parliament that he would reassess whether to lift the media ban based on the MP’s conduct during the restricted period.
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