Speaker’s dual residences draw much mirth in the House

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya responded for the Government, stating that the Speaker uses the official residence only for work. She added that another house in the Ministry of Public Administration complex has been assigned for his personal residence. Chief Government Whip Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa addressed concerns about staff housing, clarifying that neither the Speaker’s secretary nor any other staff member was given official housing. The discussion became more intense as members from both sides continued to argue, highlighting larger issues of transparency, accountability, and the use of State resources. In a lighter moment, Opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake suggested that if the Speaker preferred not to stay in the official residence, he could move into Karunanayake’s home, which is right next to the Speaker’s quarters. “The best solution to this issue is for you to come and stay at my house—it is right next to the Speaker’s official residence,” he joked, prompting laughter in the Chamber.