MEP on APRC

The Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) has stood by the policy and commitment to protect the unitary State of Sri Lanka to defeat terrorism and separatism and restore democracy to the people of the Northern and Eastern Provinces, said a communique by the MEP to media.

It said: It was in accordance with this mandated pledge, the MEP participated in APRC talks.

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution was passed amid heavy opposition and acrimonious debate. It is pertinent to state at this juncture that this Amendment was rushed through Parliament against the backdrop of a questionable and ignominious Referendum of 1982 for the exertion of the term of Parliament.

There are many aspects and features of the present Constitution which have to be repealed or amended, while ensuring meaningful functioning of democracy and the protection of unitary State of Sri Lanka.

The MEP is not insensitive to and is gravely concerned and recognises the suffering of the people of the North and the East, under terrorism, and the consequential or indirect adverse effects of terrorism on other segments of our people, the communique said.

The recommendation of the APRC to hold elections in the de-merged Eastern Province to establish the Eastern Provincial Council will undoubtedly contribute to the election of people’s representatives and participation in the democratic process representatives responsive to socio-economic and cultural development.

Also we observe that the Advisory Council of the Northern Province will be called upon to advice the Governor on similar tasks in the North. We also call upon the people to be on the alert to the machinator of conspiratorial forces aimed at subverting the Unitary State of Sri Lanka.

The MEP acknowledges the need for a viable and pragmatic solution responsive to the needs of the people of the country representing different communities. “We salute the Armed Forces on their heroic sacrifices and dedication to protect our Motherland,” it said.