-By National Movement for a Just Society
(Lanka-e-News -31.Dec.2024, 9.30 PM) We appreciate the government's reported intention to abolish the Executive Presidency. All parties should lend their support to make this aspiration a reality.
The reports suggesting that the government is prepared to introduce a new constitutional amendment after the upcoming local government elections conclude are encouraging. As the National Movement for a Just Society, we extend our full blessings and assure our complete cooperation in this endeavor.
We fondly remember the noble efforts of the venerable Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero in campaigning for the abolition of the Executive Presidency. We note with satisfaction the continuity of that stance by the National People's Power (NPP), which had supported this cause even during the movement led by the Thero to establish a new constitution.
One point deserves special attention: In rebuilding Sri Lanka’s future based on the country's foundational laws, it is essential to involve all sectors of society, including civil organizations, in this effort. The failed attempt during Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s presidency to draft a new constitution using a small group of individuals highlights the importance of inclusivity.
Similarly, in 2000, during President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s administration, a draft constitution prepared with the consensus of all parties failed to be passed due to procedural mechanisms intended to extend the presidential system until the end of her term. The opposition’s actions at that time, burning the draft in Parliament, remain a regretful chapter in history. Even later, when the President sought to pass the draft by removing contested clauses, the opposition continued to obstruct it, which was a significant misstep.
The NPP has declared that Anura Kumara Dissanayake will be Sri Lanka’s final Executive President. Given the NPP’s two-thirds majority in Parliament following the last general election, there is no obstacle to drafting a new constitution. Moreover, there are opportunities to secure the support of a majority in the opposition, potentially achieving the five-sixths parliamentary consensus required for the new constitution.
This moment presents a golden opportunity for the government to abolish the Executive Presidency, which has caused severe harm to the country. We expect the government to present a clear timeline for this initiative.
If this responsibility is fulfilled as anticipated, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will be recorded in history as a statesman of profound significance. Furthermore, this will mark the most exemplary contribution of the National People's Power government toward Sri Lanka's well-being.
Sunil Jayasekara
General Secretary
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by (2024-12-31 16:01:25)
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