Despite denials by the government that its members assaulted the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) monks, picture shows Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Jeevan Kumaratunga menacingly advancing towards the monk, while fellow MP Mervyn Silva is being held at bay

Two ministers, deputies named in monk attack

By Dilrukshi Handunnetti and Mandana Ismail Abeywickrema

Two ministers, two deputy ministers and an MP have been named as being the key offenders of last Tuesday's brutal attack on two bhikku MPs in parliament, according to statements recorded by the police.

Following last week's unruly behaviour in parliament, that led to a group of government MPs assaulting two Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) monks, Speaker W. J. M. Lokubandara requested the police to hold a speedy inquiry with a view to prosecuting the offenders.

The police last week consulted Solicitor General C. R. de Silva and Deputy Solicitor General Palitha Fernando and were directed to proceed with the investigation.

•  Abuse of power at AASSL

 Guess who came to dinner?

By Frederica Jansz

 Not even 21 days since being appointed to office, both the Managing Director and Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Limited (AASSL) are plundering staff and resources attached to AASSL, for personal gain.

Some two dozen staff at AASSL were last week prevented from performing their official functions and instead delegated to clean, paint and polish the private residence of the new Managing Director of AASSL, Shalitha Wijeysundera while other staff at AASSL were removed from work to go on a private trip with the new Chairman, M. L. M. Hizbullah.