The motion of no confidence against the Speaker was thwarted by a decisive majority of 42 votes. With 75 votes in favor and 117 against, the motion failed to garner sufficient support, marking the fifth occasion in Sri Lanka’s parliamentary history where such a motion against a Speaker met defeat.
Today’s proceedings notably mark the first motion of no confidence against a Speaker in 32 years. Despite the historical rarity of such motions, none have succeeded in the past, including the latest attempt against Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.
Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s parliamentary history, the motion against Abeywardena adds to a limited list of similar challenges faced by previous Speakers. Dating back to 1963, when R.S. Palpola faced allegations of partiality, subsequent motions were directed at M.A. Baqir Makar in 1980, M.H. Mohamed in 1991, and again against M.H. Mohammed in 1992.
From accusations of impartiality to procedural disagreements, motions of no confidence serve as a mechanism for holding parliamentary leadership to account.
The motion against Speaker Abeywardena, brought forth by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, cited concerns related to Online Safety Act and the perceived biased conduct in appointing Deshabandu Thennakoon as the Inspector General of Police.
