DON’T BE SURPRISED IF GOVT. WANTS TO MAKE PARLIAMENT AN AUTHORITY: GAYANTHA

September 20, 2010: It is not surprising if the government took steps to convert the parliament into an authority as well, says parliamentarian Gayantha Karunathilaka, media spokesman of the United National Party (UNP).

He expressed these views while addressing a media briefing at the Opposition leader’s office this morning.

“The Colombo Municipal Council has been dissolved and from what we see, the government is planning on converting it into an authority.

“The government is aware that they can never win over the Colombo Municipal Council. If this continues, the government, which travels along a dictatorial path, will soon close down the parliament and convert it into an authority citing development reasons,” said Gayantha.

He also expressed views on the process followed in getting the 18th Amendment approved.

“Many in the government consistently called the executive presidency a demon and cited its seriousness. Now, they have completely thrown away the 17th Amendment to the Constitution and the 18th Amendment to the Constitution has been endorsed with a mere head count. They passed the 18th Amendment in a rush by granting various privileges,” pointed out Gayantha Karunathilaka.

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