Nayake thero says nobody including President or PM are above the law

Prof. Bellanwila Wimalarathana nayake thero, representing the Religious Conference (RC), said it is high time that the government fully implement the 17 amendment to the constitution while preparing to devolve full powers to the Provincial Councils (PC).

President Rajapaksa agreed to "fully implement" 13 amendment to the constitution to resolve Sri Lanka's national question.

The leading Buddhist monk is among the religious leaders joined together to form RC to work for the betterment of Sri Lanka.

'Looking for excuses'

Prof. Wimalarathana nayake thero told BBC's Elmo Fernando that it looks as if the government is looking for excuses not to appoint the CC which has powers to appoint many public bodies.

Sri Lanka parliament agreed for the 17 amendment in 2001 in an attempt to reduce excessive powers enjoyed by executive presidents in Sri Lanka since 1978.

Even the president, prime minister or the opposition leader cannot violate the constitution which is the basic law of the country Prof. Bellanwila Wimalarathana nayake thero

The CC is empowered to appoint police, human rights, elections and public services commissions, a right enjoyed by the executive president.

Prof. Wimalathana thero said it is believed that the government is trying to protect president's powers by being reluctant to appoint the CC even after all minor parties agreed on their nominee.

All minor parties including President Rajapaksa's political ally, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance (TNA) have agreed to nominate former Auditor-General SC Mayadunne.

The CC is appointed by the president upon receiving the nominations from all agreed parties.

Preparing for elections

"Even the president, prime minister or the opposition leader cannot violate the constitution which is the basic law of the country," Wimalarathana nayake thero told BBC Sandeshaya.

	The controversial minister has claimed he was to be appointed to the CC

The Buddhist leader said only well respected and educated people should be appointed as members of the CC.

The thero was commenting on reports that controversial minister Mervyn Silva was to be appointed as President's nominee.

"If every person walking on the streets, I don't think that should be regarded as very serious attitude," Prof. Bellanwila Wimalarathana thero said.

People will not approve if the government seem to be preparing for future elections ignoring its duty to appoint the powerful Council, the Religious Conference warned.