News Today: 361 liquor licences issued to MPs by the previous regime revealed, including FL/4 licences used for political bribery.

In Parliament yesterday, Leader of the House Minister Bimal Ratnayake revealed that 361 liquor licences were issued in 2024. These include 172 FL/4 retail wine store licences. He claimed former President Ranil Wickremesinghe used these licences as political bribes to encourage MPs to cross parties.

The licences are distributed across provinces, with 110 issued in the Western Province, 48 in the Southern Province, 45 in the Central Province, and the rest spread nationwide. Colombo led with 22 FL/4 licences, followed by Gampaha with 18. Interestingly, Kilinochchi saw 16 licences issued, while Mullaitivu recorded none.

Minister Ratnayake stated that the list of recipients will be tabled, ensuring transparency. Chief Government Whip Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa also tabled reports detailing new licences issued this year.

The Secretary to the President has since directed the Excise Department to suspend issuing licences until further notice.

Minister Ratnayake emphasized the use of these permits in past political maneuvers and criticized former practices in Parliament. He noted a shift toward constructive debates and highlighted the positive contributions of new MPs.