NYT allegations debate hit by lack of quorum

The parliamentary debate into the investigative article in the New York Times which contained allegations of corruption against former President Mahinda Rajapaksa was held yesterday amid heated arguments from both sides. 

However, Mr Rajapaksa was not present in the House during the debate as he is overseas. The two other members of the Rajapaksa family in Parliament, former Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa and MP Namal Rajapaksa, were also absent. 

The Serjeant-at-Arms was forced to ring the bell to summon MPs on two occasions due to the lack of quorum in Parliament. Sittings were finally adjourned until today just after 6.30pm as there was no quorum. 

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