He always fought for farmers' rights

The House continued its condolences motion in remembrance of MP Amarakirthi Athukorala yesterday (23).

MP Athukorala who was killed during the mob violence on May 9, 2022.

Gampaha District MP Upul Mahendra Rajapaksa extending his condolences to the family of late MP Athukorala said he was a Parliamentarian who always fought for the rights of the farmers.

“He voiced the grievances of farmers and fought for their rights. Had he been alive today, he would demand fair prices for the paddy. We cannot call every parliamentarian a good person. MP Athukorale was a good politician and a good man. I believe that the police and the defense forces were not active enough to prevent this tragedy. On that unfortunate day, a protestor, MP Athukorale and his bodyguard were killed. Three murders in the same vicinity. I will not hold the protestors responsible. People were aggravated. They were suffering. Some other groups who instigated violence were among the protestors. We do not approve violence though we justify the protests. Unfortunately, none of the persons who were involved in violent activities has been arrested. Only some other persons at the protest have been arrested. The dead persons and the arrested ones are all fathers. Many families are in grief.” MP Upul Mahendra Rajapaksha said.

Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage extended his condolences to MP Athukorale’s family, saying that the House has lost an exemplary politician. “MP Athukorale was an honest, innocent and humble person. In the short period of time I got to know him, he became a dear friend. He has visited me on several occasions. He is an Honourable MP in the true sense of the word.” Aluthgamage said.

MP John Senevirathne extended his condolences to MP Amarakirthi Athukorale’s family and reiterated that MP Athukorale’s case should be heard before a trial-at-bar.

“I hope swift legal action would be taken against the culprits of this tragedy. Similar incidents happened in Pakistan and England. In both cases, legal measures were taken and the culprits brought to justice as soon as possible. Therefore, we urge a swift and impartial investigation to this matter as well. All MPs emphasize the need for a trial at bar. We all hope the Attorney General will take necessary steps regarding this matter,” MP Senevirathne said.