Parliament Initiates Process to Remove IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon

COLOMBO (News 1st); The process for the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) was set in motion with the approval of a proposal in Parliament. 

The proposal was presented to Parliament by Attorney-at-Law Lakmali Hemachandra, a Member of Parliament from the National People's Power (NPP). 

The motion received overwhelming support, with 151 votes in favor and no votes against.

The proposal which was passed, was signed by 115 Members of Parliament, was submitted to the Speaker.

According to the Removal of Officers Act No. 5 of 2002, the proposal includes 27 charges against the IGP. 

Following today's (8) approval, an investigative committee must be appointed to examine these charges.

The committee will consist of a Supreme Court judge appointed by the Chief Justice, the Chairman of the National Police Commission, and an individual of distinguished standing in the fields of law or public administration.

The latter will be appointed by the Speaker with the agreement of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.

The Supreme Court judge appointed by the Chief Justice will chair the committee. 

If the committee finds the IGP guilty of the charges, the Speaker will have the opportunity to include a motion for the IGP's removal in the parliamentary agenda.

The President can remove the IGP from office only if the motion is approved by a majority of the total number of Members of Parliament, including those not present.