Parliamentarian Professor G. L. Peiris stated that the government’s last resort to postpone the presidential election is the 22nd Constitutional Amendment, which conflicts with three articles, including Article 83(b). He made these remarks today (17th) at a press conference in Colombo.
Professor Peiris emphasized that the Election Commission had the legal authority to announce the presidential election as of yesterday. He pointed out that the terms of office for the President and Parliament are clearly defined in subsection 30(2) and subsection 62(2) of the Constitution.
He also mentioned that a two-thirds majority in Parliament and a referendum are required for the 22nd Constitutional Amendment. If passed, a referendum must be held within 30 days.
Furthermore, Professor Peiris stated that the 22nd Constitutional Amendment cannot be submitted to Parliament as an emergency bill, as specified in subsection 122(3) of the Constitution. He noted that although the Cabinet has approved the amendment, it has not yet been gazetted.
Professor Peiris argued that the government introduces such amendments out of fear of elections when a presidential election is approaching. He added that the Election Commission will announce the presidential election within 13 days.
