Former President Maithripala Sirisena extending his congratulations to the newly appointed Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena in parliament today (20) said that the leadership of the Speaker is vital for the future of the esteemed parliament.

Matara District MP Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena was unanimously appointed as the Speaker of the new Parliament.

 The first sitting of the 9th Parliament of Sri Lanka commenced at 9.30 am today (20) in accordance with Standing Order No. 1 of Parliament following recommended health guidelines.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will ceremonially declare open the first session of the Ninth Parliament and present the new Government’s Policy Statement at 3 pm today.