SLPP Partygate: Premalal Demands Action Against "False Allegations"

COLOMBO (News 1st); In the wake of mounting controversy surrounding a recent gathering on a Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) vessel attended by SLPP MPs, State Minister of Ports and Aviation Premalal Jayasekara defended the event and demanded action against trade unions circulating footage of the event, which he claims were obtained illegally.

Jayasekara acknowledged that MPs requested an observation tour of the port facilities, including the sea sand removal project and the West Container Terminal, during a recent budget debate. 

He justified his role in facilitating the tour as part of his responsibilities as State Minister.

He further condemned "false allegations" and called for action against "certain media and those who make false statements."

The controversy stems from footage of the event, which reportedly showed former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and around 20 other MPs celebrating onboard the SLPA vessel. 

This has sparked accusations of insensitivity and extravagance amidst a struggling healthcare system and economic hardship.

The Sri Lanka Port Trade Union revealed that the the SLPP ship party, which took place on January 9th, was reportedly hosted at the invitation of Premalal Jayasekara, the State Minister for Ports and Civil Aviation. 

The union claims that approximately fifty individuals, attended the gathering, amongst them the leader of the SLPP, Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The port trade union, revealed the party's details and released footage allegedly depicting the event.