The much-awaited 21st amendment is not likely to be taken up by the Cabinet today. The move is a sequel to a suggestion made by a group f SLPP members to the President.
The group has pointed out to the President that the clause aimed at shutting out dual citizens from Parliament is to keep Basil Rajapaksa at bay. If it happens as designed, it could cause another controversy in the government. They have also emphasised that if the President was planning to bring in the 21st amendment, it should come with a proviso that the amendment will come into operation following the end of the current President’s term of office.
Despite claims by the SLPP members Minister of Justice has envisaged that the new amendment includes salient democratic features. Shutting out Parliament for dual citizens and restricting the powers of the executive by introducing an Audit commission and procurement commission are some of the main features, including the appointment of a constitutional Council that would handle all principal positions in vital government institutions.
