Slamming criticisms levelled against the National Police Commission by Minister of Higher Education and Cultural Affairs Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe this week, Chairman of the Commission P.H Manatunga said the unwarranted comments lead to a suspicion of a vested interest on the part of the Minister.
“At a time when the term of the Commission is coming to an end the Minister’s comments are questionable,” he said adding that perhaps the Minister intends to influence the appointment of the NPC’s new members by painting a bad picture of the Commission. The term of the NPC is set to end this month.
“He seems to have some people in his mind for the positions,” Manatunga said adding that however, his intentions will not go far due to the Chairman of the Constitutional Council, being an upright person.
“It is very unfair when responsible people make comments like this” Manatunga said adding that despite being a lawyer Rajapakshe has not supported his criticisms or allegations with any proof. “TheCommission has now compiled a report on all its activities and action taken during its tenure,” he said adding that once it is released such criticisms will be found to be baseless.
The Minister had hit out at the NPC questioning whether the NPC was a home for the elders ensuring a good retirement plan for some people.
He had also said the government would introduce drastic reforms to the Police Commission to transform it into an efficient organisation that would strengthen the Police service.