Saroja Savithri Paulraj elected as Chairperson of Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus

The Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus of the Tenth Parliament met on Nov. 03 for the first time under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya at Parliament. 

Deputy Chairpersons of Committees, Hon. Hemali Weerasekara, and the Secretary to the Caucus and the Secretary General of Parliament Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera were also present at the Caucus meeting held.
During the meeting, Minister of Women and Child Affairs – Saroja Savithri Paulraj was elected as the new Chairperson of the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus. Her name was proposed by Samanmalee Gunasingha and was seconded by Anushka Thilakarathne.

Additionally, two Deputy Co-Chairs were elected. The name of MP Chamindrani Bandara Kirielle was proposed by MP Rohini Kumari Wijerathna and was seconded by MP Thushari Jayasingha. MP Samanmalee Gunasingha was also elected as a Deputy Co-Chair, following her name being proposed by MP Krishnan Kaleichelvi and was seconded by MP Deepthi Wasalage.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, addressing everyone present, emphasized the significant achievement of having a noteworthy percentage of women elected to Parliament by public vote. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of conducting the activities of the Caucus beyond political ideologies and fostering a collaborative spirit.

Chairperson Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj expressed her aspirations for the Caucus, underscoring the vision of creating a nation where every woman feels safe and secure. The Caucus also decided to establish a subcommittee, led by the two Deputy Co-Chairs, to review and report on future programs and initiatives. Additionally, upon a proposal by Hon. Rohini Kumari Wijerathna, it was decided to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on December 6.