Opposition to block Govt. efforts to reform Parliamentary electoral system

Wednesday, 11 October 2023 00:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

MP S.M. Marikkar

SJB MP Marikkar says party will not allow Govt. to secure a two-thirds majority to introduce reforms
Accuses President of attempting to gain support of SLPP backbenchers with this endeavour to secure Presidential candidacy
Claims victory of SJB and Sajith Premadasa at next election is inevitable
Stresses Opposition will not support any effort to obstruct polls

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar yesterday said the Opposition will not support the Government in its efforts to introduce reforms to the country’s Parliamentary electoral system.

“The Government is attempting to reform the current Parliamentary electoral system. The reforms will necessitate a two-thirds majority in Parliament, which would typically require support from the Opposition. However, the Opposition will not provide its support for these efforts,” Marikkar said.

During a press conference held at the Opposition Leader’s office, Marikkar said rumours are rife that the Government has now presented a Cabinet paper to reform the electoral system.

Marikkar accused President Ranil Wickremesinghe of trying to gain the support of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) backbenchers with this endeavour, in order to protect his current position as President and secure his candidacy for the presidential election.

He also pointed out that Wickremesinghe has initiated an effort to amend the United National Party (UNP) constitution with the same objective in mind.

The MP said that a victory for the SJB and the subsequent appointment of SJB leader Sajith Premadasa as Prime Minister in the next general election is inevitable.

Marikkar said that the Opposition will therefore not participate in any attempts to obstruct elections, emphasising that the people who are currently facing suppression see elections as the only means to have their voices heard.

The MP remarked: “Even though Ranil Wickremesinghe may have reservations about elections, we cannot assist him in that regard.”