National People’s Power (NPP) member Asoka Ranwala has come under fire once again following remarks made during an interview with BBC Sinhala this week.

Ranwala, who served as Speaker of the 10th Parliament, was forced to resign after controversy arose over the accuracy of his educational qualifications—particularly a doctorate from a Japanese university that he claimed to have earned. However, amid public outcry and his inability to provide certificates verifying the PhD, Ranwala stepped down. In his resignation, he assured that he would present the necessary documents as soon as possible.

In an interview with BBC Sinhala, two months after his resignation, Ranwala expressed deep regret if the controversy surrounding his doctorate had left a stain on the NPP government.

When asked when he would produce the certificates as promised, Ranwala dismissed the question, stating that it was not a matter of public concern.

He also defended his appointment as Speaker, asserting that it was a responsibility entrusted to him by the party.

“If there were any issues regarding my position, we could have easily overcome them. But even if we had won an impeachment attempt, the damage would have been significant, and it would have been a grave injustice to our mission and cause,” he said.

Pressed further on when he would present his qualifications, Ranwala responded by questioning the necessity of doing so.

“Parliament is not a place to submit educational certificates. What is the procedure for that? Is there any procedure at all? There is no parliamentary tradition for it either. It’s a third-rate matter. We don’t go to Parliament to display certificates but to serve a greater cause. Our responsibility is to the public,” he said.