By Saman Indrajith, Courtesy The Island

Nalinda Jayatissa / Premadasa

Opposition and SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa yesterday demanded that the government disclose when it would introduce constitutional reforms and hold the long-delayed provincial council elections.

Making a special statement under Standing Order 27(2), the Opposition Leader raised a series of questions, including those related to the postponement of provincial elections, the status of promised constitutional reforms, and recent judicial transfers.

We want the government to inform this House whether it intends to proceed with constitutional reforms, as pledged in its election manifesto, titled A Thriving Nation, a Beautiful Life, specifically on page 194,” Premadasa said.

It must clarify whether it is still committed to this promise, and, if so, when it will be fulfilled. The government also promised to abolish the executive presidency, and we want to know when that will happen. Furthermore, the House deserves to know when the provincial council elections will be held,” he said.

Chief Government Whip and Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa responded by saying that the Prime Minister would address the questions raised by the Opposition Leader.

Premadasa: These are very important questions, and I do not understand why the government needs time to answer them.”

Minister Jayatissa: This is essentially a question paper. Someone needs to advise the Opposition Leader on how to raise questions under Standing Order 27(2). He has bundled multiple issues such as provincial elections, the executive presidency, judicial transfers and many others into one statement. These are complex matters that require time to prepare a comprehensive response.”

Kurunegala District SJB MP Dayasiri Jayasekara: All we’re asking for are answers. We’ve raised our questions. If the government is unwilling to respond, it should just say so.”

Minister Jayatissa: As I said, the Prime Minister will respond in due course. The Opposition Leader speaks of the urgency and national importance of provincial council elections but let me remind you that this government has been in office for just one year. You went three years without holding the same elections.”