Former Speaker and MP Asoka Sapumal Ranwala has dismissed calls to submit his academic qualifications to Parliament, stating that such demands are mere political tactics.
In an interview with BBC Sinhala, Ranwala questioned the necessity of presenting certificates in Parliament, adding that it was not the people’s problem. “Is there a system in Parliament to present certificates? Is there such a tradition? These are cheap tactics. We do more important work in Parliament,” he said, adding that discussions were ongoing and the necessary steps would be taken.
Ranwala resigned two months ago following public scrutiny over his academic qualifications. While denying any false claims, he admitted that certain documents required to verify his doctorate from research institutions affiliated with Japan’s Waseda University were not currently available.
Reflecting on his resignation, he said that politics for him was never about securing positions. “In any challenge that comes to us personally, we put the country and its people first. That is our politics,” he said, adding that he was willing to make sacrifices for the people.
He further stated that he stepped down to prevent doubts among the public who had placed their trust in the government. (NewsWire)