“Will abolish Executive Presidency” – JVP

 

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), in its election manifesto titled “Accord of Conscientiousness”, has stated it would abolish the executive presidency and has a parliamentary system. In its manifesto, launched at its convention, it has pledged to reduce the Cabinet to 25 members, introduce a new electoral system, and enact legislation to prevent MPs from changing their political affiliations.

The JVP has said it would stop the payment of pensions to future MPs. The party has said it would assign only state vehicles for MPs to use in the discharge of their duties and not give them luxury vehicles. In has also promised to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act, enact a Right to Information law and draw up a code of conduct for MPs.

In another major change, it says it will give voting rights to those above 16. Currently the minimum voting age is 18. Voting facilities for expatriate Sri Lankans is another promise. The JVP intends to maintain a foreign policy which guarantees the sovereignty of Sri Lanka, to oppose what it calls ‘imperialism and neo-colonialism’.

It seeks to foster ties with socialist countries and to open new missions in countries where Sri Lankans stay for work and other purposes in large numbers. The JVP has promised to facilitate the return of Sri Lankan refugees from India with incentives via a special programme created for the purpose. A grant of Rs.500, 000 has been promised to each family that lost its home due to the war.