IPU Secretary General calls on Speaker

The Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Martin Chungong, and Laurence Marzal, Senior Programme officer paid a courtesy call on Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, Speaker yesterday (12) in Parliament. The Speaker briefed Mr. Chungong on the recent developments pertaining to the Parliament of Sri Lanka emphasizing the establishment of more powerful and strong Sectoral Oversight Committees which included public participation, Parliament's Communications Department stated.

Speaker Abeywardena conveyed the intention regarding the formation of the National Parliamentary Council inclusive of all political parties of the House for the purpose of policy guidance and prioritization of matters of national interest to be considered by the House. Furthermore, he highlighted the need of forming an all-party Government. Furthermore, the electoral reforms and the 22nd Amendment was also taken into discussion.

Mr Chungong commended the efforts made by the authorities in responding to the needs and demands of the people. He also highlighted the importance of youth participation and their involvement in national debate. Furthermore, the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, He also emphasized on the need to strengthen the participation of women in politics and other vulnerable groups to ensure inclusive governance.

Dhammika Dasanayake, the Secretary General of Parliament stated that a strong media coverage with transparency similar to the House of Commons in the United Kingdom and opening Parliament to the public with information readily available would be a solution. Mr Chungong, agreeing on the said further added that it is important to keep the public informed of the activities of Parliament and that media should be responsible not to distort information for publicity. 

The Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union also extended his condolences given the demise of the mother of the Speaker. He also assured working together in real partnership to strengthen Parliament and presented the Speaker with a token.

Mr Chungong is also scheduled to meet the Leader of the House Dr Susil Premajayantha and the Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, the Secretary General said.

The Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) arrived on Sunday (11) given an invitation extended by the President Ranil Wickremesinghe when he was the Prime Minister.