He further disclosed that another MP from Malaima was observed pulling weeds in the Poonagala estate using a vehicle belonging to the Ministry of Tourism. The MP also presented a relevant photograph to support the claim.
This information came to light during a parliamentary session on January 23, when a question was raised regarding the number of vehicles provided to MPs by the current government. The comments were made in response to the statement provided by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
In her response, the Prime Minister clarified that no vehicles are being allocated to MPs in the 10th Parliament. However, she did confirm that MP Sugath Wasantha de Silva has been provided a vehicle with the registration number KR – 5844 by the Presidential Secretariat, citing a special need.
The Prime Minister emphasized that while the vehicle has been provided, no driver or fuel is being supplied for it. She also mentioned that the vehicle is currently stationed in Madiwela, and MP de Silva uses a cab for transportation.
Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, in his response, pointed out the inconsistency, mentioning, “You say that he did not provide it responsibly. I accept that. Today, the Range Rover is in front of the Madiwela house. A minister in this parliament rides it. It costs more than the V8. Can you tell me the name? Wasantha Samarasinghe.”
Furthermore, the vehicle that sparked a viral discussion on social media is registered under the Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and is linked to a member of parliament. However, Dassanayake refrained from disclosing the MP’s identity, but added, “He pulls weeds in Poonagala Estate, Bandarawela.”
