NMSJ urges political parties to nominate clean candidates for Parliamentary Election

The National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) while commending the positive political culture that existed after the 2024 Presidential Election, stressed the importance of electing honourable representatives to Parliament yesterday.

“For the next Parliamentary Election, every political party should commit to ensuring that no candidates have serious criminal charges, such as murder, drug abuse, or rape,” a NMSJ statement issued by its Chairman and former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said.

“The National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) believed that the positive political culture demonstrated in the 2024 Presidential Election should be further strengthened.

The election was peaceful, with no incidents of violence reported. The winner graciously accepted his victory, and the losing candidate respectfully accepted the public’s decision. These actions over a single weekend are commendable and a source of pride for the nation”, the statement stated.

As we look ahead to the upcoming Parliamentary Election, it is crucial to maintain and build upon this positive political culture. Electing honourable representatives to Parliament is essential. While it is not fair to blame all MPs, it is clear that past Parliaments have been criticised due to the misconduct of certain MPs. We must urgently work to rectify this situation.

For the next Parliamentary Election, every political party should commit to ensuring that no candidates have serious criminal charges, such as murder, drug abuse, or rape. Candidates should also disclose whether they have paid income taxes, and if not, explain why. A health assessment report should also be provided by MPs, if needed, similar to the requirement established by the Parliamentary Committee on High Posts for high-ranking officials like Ministry Secretaries and foreign diplomats including ambassadors and high commissioners of Sri Lanka.

Political parties must clarify whether they are providing such guarantees and, if not, explain why.

It is important for the public to have all the facts to make informed decisions. The NMSJ puts forward this proposal in good faith, without any narrow agenda, aiming solely for the country’s better future.

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