Geethanjana resigns as Deputy Speaker

Chaminda Perera

Deputy Speaker Geethanjana Gunawardena yesterday tendered his resignation from the post of Deputy Speaker, to the President under the clause 64 (2) of the Constitution paving way for an immediate election in the House.

Gunawardene told the Daily News that he arrived at this decision in agreement with the President and a right candidate will be elected by the House soon under the clause 63 (2) of the Constitution.

"I expect to make a special statement in the House with regard to my resignation when Parliament resumes on July 8."

I have already been involved in the Sabaragamuwa provincial election campaign to ensure the UPFA victory at the election which will be held on August 23, he said.

Geethanjana along with his brother Dinesh Gunawardena represented Parliament from the Mahanajana Eksath Peramuna, a part of United People's Freedom Alliance which received over 45.6 per cent of the popular vote at the 2004 General Election.