Party Leaders want 21st Amendment enacted soon

A general consensus among political party leaders was reached last Friday that the 21st Amendment to the Constitution had to be passed as soon as possible.

Political party leaders last Friday also agreed that the re-enactment of 19th Amendment in the form of 21st Amendment would be the first step and abolishment of the Executive Presidency would be the second step.

This was decided at the Party Leaders’ meeting held to discuss the draft 21st Amendment under the auspices of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last Friday (27).

The purpose of the meeting was to allow the Party Leaders to present their observations regarding the draft Amendment.

Following the discussions, it was decided that due to the Tamil National Alliance being unable to attend Friday’s meeting, they would hold a final meeting next Friday (3), with the TNA’s attendance, so as to finalise the draft.

The Prime Minister also announced that during the week if any parties wished to seek further clarification they could do so from the Justice Minister. Party Leaders will also further discuss whether or not the President can retain the Defence portfolio.