Uddika Premaratne, who has just resigned from his parliamentary seat, has sought political asylum in Canada.
Citing threats to his life, he has asked for citizenship and protection from that country.
He has noted with concern the government and police inaction over a shooting that targeted his vehicle on 18 September last year.
According to media reports, Premaratne and his family had gone to Dubai last December from where he proceeded to Canada.
He tendered his resignation to the speaker from that country.
