Chief Opposition Whip Parliamentarian Gayantha Karunathilleka stated that although the Government has decided to grant the Opposition the Chairpersonship of three out of the seven Parliamentary Sectoral Oversight Committees (SOCs), the Opposition's request was for the Chairpersonship of all seven SOCs.

During a session of the Committee on Parliamentary Business last week, a consensus was reached to establish seven SOCs, with the Opposition allocated three Chairpersonships and the Government, four.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, MP Karunathilleka said that the number of SOCs had been reduced to seven based on a report prepared by a committee appointed to examine the matter. "We submitted our observations regarding that report. This was also discussed during a session of the Business Committee, where it was decided to establish seven SOCs, with four Chairpersonships allocated to the Government and three to the Opposition." However, he noted that the Opposition believes that all seven SOCs should be Chaired by them, although the Government's decision is final. "Since Ministerial Consultative Committees are Chaired by the respective ministers, we requested that the Chairpersonships of all SOCs be granted to us. However, the Government has chosen this approach. Therefore, we will discuss and decide on who will be appointed as the Chairpersons of the said three SOCs."

The SOCs have the authority to examine any Bill (except those defined in the relevant Constitutional provisions) as well as treaties, reports (including annual and performance reports) related to institutions under their purview, or any other matter referred to them by the Parliament, another committee, or a minister, provided that it falls within their jurisdiction. In addition, they (SOCs) may, at any time, conduct inquiries and investigations as deemed necessary or appropriate in the exercise of their responsibilities.