A no-confidence motion moved by the opposition against Sri Lanka's Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake for "economic mismanagement" was today defeated in the parliament.
The motion was defeated with a majority of 94 votes. The 225-member parliament voted 145 against five short of a two thirds majority while 51 were in favour and 28 were absent.
The Tamil National Alliance members were absent when the vote was taken. The joint opposition was supported by the Marxist JVP who voted against Karunanayake.
The no-confidence motion was moved by the opposition alleging that Karunanayake was incapable of handling the economy, tackling the depreciating currency and raising taxes
President Maithripala Sirisena who is not a member but attends sessions in terms of constitution was present in the House in solidarity with Karunanayake.
Yesterday, the voting did not take place after an unusual sound system failure forced the Speaker to adjourn the parliament.
