Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena informed the Parliament today that a vacancy in the Membership of the current Parliament has occurred following the demise of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Trincomalee District Parliamentarian R. Sampanthan.
The Speaker said the vacancy has occurred with effect from the 30th of June 2024 in terms of the provisions of Article 66(a) of the Constitution.
“It is with profound regret that I inform this Parliament of his passing away. On behalf of Parliament, I would like to convey that we are deeply saddened by his demise and I would like to express our heartfelt sympathies to the family of the Honourable Member,’’ the Speaker said.
He further said that the vote of condolence in this regard will be presented to Parliament on a future date.
Furthermore, the Speaker informed all the Members of Parliament that the late MP Sampanthan’s remains will lie in the ceremonial hall near the main door of the Parliament tomorrow (July 03) from 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. to pay final respects. (Newswire)