Colombo: “If we are to restore the Parliament as a supreme institution, which has faced public scorn and disapproval in the past, we must act with the awareness that we are the representatives of the people,” stated Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka, the Prime Minister made these remarks during the inaugural session of the awareness workshop on parliamentary procedures for new members of the Tenth Parliament, held this morning. In her address, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya congratulated the newly elected members of Parliament, highlighting the historic significance of this Parliament, particularly noting the highest representation of women with 22 female MPs. She also emphasized the remarkable turnover with 162 out of the 225 MPs being newly elected, which she stated reflects the public’s sentiment and rejection of previous parliamentary practices.

The Prime Minister urged all MPs, regardless of their positions, to recognize their primary rol
e as representatives of the people, emphasizing the need to prioritize the hopes and trust placed in them by the citizens. She noted that reversing the public’s disapproval of Parliament in recent years requires collective efforts to meet the people’s expectations and uphold their aspirations.

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed that this Parliament must serve as a turning point in political practice, and the workshop plays a crucial role in equipping members to innovate parliamentary procedures while preserving its traditions. The event was attended by Speaker Dr. Ashoka Ranwala, Deputy Speaker Dr. Mohamed Rizvi Salley, Deputy Committee Chairman Hemalee Weerasekara, Leader of the House Minister Bimal Ratnayake, Chief Organizer of the Government Party Minister Dr. Nalin Nalinda Jayatissa, newly elected public representatives, the Secretary General of Parliament, Deputy Secretary General, Assistant Secretary General, and other dignitaries.

One of the standout highlights of the event was the participation of Co-owner an
d Head of the drinks program at Smoke and Bitters, Matara, Sri Lanka, Don Ransinghe. Smoke and Bitters has ranked #29 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Don mesmerized attendees with his exceptional mixology skills, crafting innovative beverages that showcased Sri Lanka’s unique flavors infused with modern techniques.