Special committee expanded to Presidential Commission

A special committee appointed by the Western Province Governor Alavi Mowlana to probe into allegations levelled against the Western Province Chief Minister Reginald Cooray by the Opposition has been expanded to a special Presidential Commission.

President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga handed over the appointment letter to the Chairman of this Special Commission retired Appeal Court Judge Dr. Chandradasa Nanayakkara.

Chief Minister Reginald Cooray visited the BMICH yesterday afternoon to submit his written submissions to the committee on a prior notice.

But the Chief Minister did not submit his written submissions as the Head of the Commission Chandradasa Nanayakkara informed him that the Commission has been expanded to a Presidential Commission.

Dr. Nanayakkara said the Committee has been upgraded to a Presidential Commission giving wide powers by the President.

The public has been given an opportunity to give evidence before the Commission. This will help conduct investigations in a very comprehensive manner.

President has directed the Presidential Commission investigating into the allegations against the Chief Minister to submit its report within three months.