In response to questions raised by Members of Parliament Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Dayasiri Jayasekara about the inactive status of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena mentioned the possibility of appointing a temporary chairman for the COPE Committee. The Speaker informed Parliament that the COPE committee would convene for discussions either today (01) or tomorrow (02) to address this issue.
The COPE Committee, chaired by Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Member of Parliament Professor Ranjith Bandara, faced criticism during the budget debate for the Chairman’s actions, his son’s presence in the committee room, and the perceived links with the Sri Lanka Cricket Board. This led to the temporary suspension of COPE committee meetings, and although they have now resumed, concerns remain about its functioning.
During recent party leader meetings, a decision was made to proceed with investigations related to the Sri Lanka Cricket Board without the involvement of the current COPE chairman. The controversy surrounding the COPE chairman’s actions and the temporary suspension of committee meetings have brought the issue of the COPE chairman into focus. Member of Parliament Lakshman Kiriella highlighted that, according to standing orders, the COPE Committee cannot have two chairmen, and the authority to appoint the COPE Chairman rests with the Members of Parliament. The situation is expected to be clarified through discussions in the coming days.