Cardinal calls for immediate abolition of Constitution

Wednesday, 5 February 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Calls existing Constitution a fatal blow to democracy, saying it has enabled authoritarian rule
Criticises past Governments for exploiting unchecked powers granted by the 1978 Constitution
Condemns media suppression, enforced disappearances, white van abductions, and imprisonment of political opponents since 1990
Calls for a new constitution that unites all communities, removes lawlessness, and promotes religious, cultural, and social renewal

Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith

Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith yesterday called for the immediate repeal of Sri Lanka’s current Constitution, labelling it a fatal blow to democracy.

He urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Government to introduce a new constitution to dismantle the existing corrupt system and restore true freedom to the country.Speaking at the Catholic religious service for Sri Lanka’s 77th National Independence Day at All Saints’ Church in Borella, Ranjith condemned what he described as a dictatorial frenzy that emerged under the guise of war. He accused successive Governments of abusing the unchecked powers granted under the 1978 Presidential Constitution, leading to authoritarian rule and prolonged conflict.

“The unlimited power granted within this legal framework led to a rift between communities that could have been peacefully resolved, instead spiralling into war and creating a terrifying situation in the country,” he said.