Ajith P. Perera on Presidential Election

Followed by the Supreme Court decision, which states that the President could hold office only for five years, a presidential election has to be held next year said, Deputy Minister Ajith P. Perera  yesterday. As per Supreme Court decision  it is clear that a presidential election  to be held in November or December next year as the  current President’s tenure ends in January 2020, he said at a public rally held  in Maha Bellana during  the weekend.

A mandate was given for a new constitution and to abolish the executive presidency. President Sirisena was elected on the promise of carrying out these political reforms,” he said. “The President is right in seeking such a determination to clear any ambiguity or doubts. The current Parliament will go on for five years. President has no power to dissolve Parliament till it completes four and a half years of its term. There is no provision in the 19th amendment to remove the Prime Minister. The President has to consult the Prime Minister when appointing a minister. Parliament has power to allocate funds for all ministries. Political turmoil is avoided with the 19th Amendment. The SC determination had confirmed that the 19th Amendment is in operation.