Tussle in AJP over removal of Ven. Rathana Thera

On Oct 15, 2021

Parliamentarian Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera has been removed from Ape Janabala Pakshaya (AJP), said Dr. Susantha Kodithuwakku, National Organizer of the Party.

According to party sources, Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera is to be appointed to replace Rathana Thera in parliament.

Dr. Susantha Kodithuwakku said that the Party took action yesterday (15) to inform the Elections Commission about the removal of Ven. Rathana Thera. He said Ven. Rathana Thera was accused of acting against the decisions of the party, undermining the public’s trust in the party and following an inquiry the party had taken the decision to remove him.

Ven. Rathana Thera has not participated in the disciplinary inquiry.

Meanwhile, Ven. Rathana Thera said the decision to expel him was illegal and that legal action would be taken in the future regarding the illegal document that allegedly led to his removal.

He said that he had learned that a secretary of the party had sent the letter and added that the secretary had no authority to send such a letter and that only the chairman of the party had the authority to send such a letter.

Meanwhile Elections Commission Chairman, Attorney-at-Law Nimal G. Punchihewa when inquired said although a letter has been sent to the Elections Commission regarding the removal of Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera it should be sent to the Secretary General of Parliament first.

He said in the letter sent regarding the removal of the said Member of Parliament it is mentioned that a copy has been sent to the Secretary General of Parliament but added it should be referred to the Secretary General first.

Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya after the last general election nominated Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera for its National List slot in Parliament.