No National Security Issues, But MPs Need Protection—Because, Why Not?

In a country where national security is supposedly rock solid, a curious development has taken place—Members of Parliament are suddenly worried about their own safety.

Deputy Minister of Defense Aruna Jayasekara, who recently offered free national security lessons to the opposition, seems unbothered. Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, meanwhile, reminded everyone of past courtroom violence, referencing the murder of Ganemulla Sanjeewa. And in a dramatic twist, Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala lost his cool during a heated exchange, famously calling a driver comrade a "donkey."

Yet, amidst all this, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala reassures the nation—there’s no issue with national security! But just to be extra sure, the President has promised to wipe out the underworld.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, whose party once championed a "we don’t need security" approach, was quick to follow security instructions after coming into power. Suddenly, despite no "national security issues," MPs find themselves needing more protection than ever.

Speaker of Parliament confirmed this today (21), officially announcing:

"After considering the repeated requests from esteemed MPs regarding their security concerns, I have forwarded these requests to the Acting Inspector General of Police for appropriate action."

So, the million-dollar question remains: If national security isn’t a problem, why do MPs need extra security? Or is it just one of those mysterious "political privileges" that no one else gets to enjoy?