Speaker Karu Jayasuriya today turned down a request made by former Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake to make a statement in Parliament over violation of privileges. 

The Speaker's refusal raised an many an eyebrow as Karunanayake's statement was aimed at explaining his version of the story involving the bond fiasco. 

When contacted by reporters, Karunanayake said his request was turned out for reasons "best known to the Speaker". 

It is known in the political circles that Speaker Jayasuriya and Karunanayake are not on best terms. The bitterness stems from  internal power-struggles within the party, sources close to Karunanayake said.

'I think My privileges, as a Parliamentarian, have been violated in this whole issue. I have a right to seek redress from Parliament," Karunanayake said.