UNP ready to discuss proposed constitution with Govt.

The main opposition United National Party yesterday claimed it was ready to discuss its proposals for a new constitution with the ruling Government. 

UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake told media that the party wanted a new constitution to be a “people friendly” process and therefore it would be inviting wide stakeholder discussion and participation before the drafting of the new constitution. “We will also hold discussions with the Government about these proposals,” Attanayake said.

President’s Counsel and member of the UNP’s Drafting Committee Wijeyadasa Rajapakse said that several groups of Government MPs had already expressed their agreement with the proposals unveiled by the main opposition party last week.

He said these MPs would not be making their opinions public at this time.

The UNP last Wednesday released its proposals for a third Republican Constitution to replace the 1978 Constitution that established the executive presidency. The UNP’s reforms include the slashing of presidential power and a change in the system of governance, a reinstatement of the independent commissions and the 17th Amendment and devolution proposals that envision slightly more autonomy for provincial councils set up under the 13th Amendment.