JVP says two parties are repeating the 'historic mistake' of not talking to others

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) described the talks to amend the constitution as a ‘dealying tactic’ to divert attention from the economic crisis facing Sri Lanka.

The government and the United National Party (UNP) on Monday announced that they agreed to discuss ways to amend the constitution creating an executive prime minister post instead of the current executive presidential system.

The executive presidency with sweeping powers was introduced by the UNP-led government in 1978.

17 amendment

The government has earlier announced plans to amend the constitution removing the two-term limit for the executive presidency paving the way for President Mahinda Rajapaksa to remain in office even after serving his full term.

I think the government has managed to get the UNP leader also involved in this drama. We regret that the UNP is involved in this JVP General Secretary, Tilvin Silva

The JVP described the talks between the government and the UNP as a repetition of a ‘historic mistake’ in changing the vital constitution of the country.

“I think the government has managed to get the UNP leader also involved in this drama. We regret that the UNP is involved in this,” JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva said.

He strongly criticised UNP agreeing to discuss with the government on the 17 amendment, that paved the way for independent commissions.

“No talks are needed on the 17 amendment. It is part of the government and it was in force until Mahinda Rajapaksa came to power,” he said.

Tilvin Silva also agreed that the talks may be a diverting tactic by the UNP to focus attention away from the ongoing crisis in the UNP.