by Neminda Samarajeewa
Baddegama Samitha, who contested the general election on the PA ticket, will be the first monk to enter Parliamentary ranks.

Ven. Samitha, who joined the PA with Vasudeva Nanayakkara, has had long involvement in politics.

Having begun political life in the NSSP, Ven Samitha went on to become the Deputy Chairman of the Baddegama Pradeshiya Sabha. He was also elected to the Southern Provincial Council thereafter on the PA ticket.

He has surpassed his two previous records by entering the supreme legislature.

Buddhist...

Ven Samitha, who contested the Galle district polled 42,120 preference votes, was one of four PA members elected from Galle.

In an interview with "The Island" Ven. Baddegama Samitha said that he had not broken the "vinaya" by entering parliament. "I have been in the Southern provincial council for four years. I represent the poor people in my area and will work to uplift their living standards."

He also said he is ready to talk with Prime Minister elect Ranil Wickremesinghe in Parliament on finding solutions to the north-east problem."

Ven. Samitha holds a first degree in Religious studies and Third World Development from the University of Leicester.