‘Constitution allows state to hold referendum only for single reason’

The present constitution allows the state to hold a referendum only for a single reason. Referenda cannot be held for several reasons. Implementing the LLRC report recommendations is not a single reason. There are many recommendations in it, Leader of the House and Irrigation and Water Resources Management Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

“Therefore, it is not legal and practical to hold a referendum to take a decision on the implementation of LLRC report recommendations,” he said.

Addressing a special press briefing at the External Affairs Ministry auditorium yesterday, Minister de Silva said that various persons can have different opinions on the LLRC report and the implementation of its recommendations.

“The government will not treat it as the Dhammapada or the Bible. The government will take the final decision on it only after considering the best interest of the future of the people and the country. We are against forcing us to do anything. We will give priority to the well - being of the future of the country and its people, history, ethics, morals and culture. We have a leadership. Our stand is crystal clear,” the minister said.

According to Minister de Silva, international pressure or demands from others, will not force the government to implement the LLRC report recommendations.

“The government will implement it because it sincerely needs reconciliation. The government is waiting for the TNA response in connection with taking part in the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC). We asked the UNHRC and the diaspora to tell the TNA to take part in the PSC. The problem can be solved within six months if they take part in it as mentioned in the resolution,” he said. “How can anybody blame the government for other political parties not taking part in the PSC?” the minister queried.

'The LLRC has gone beyond the mandate given to it by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at certain points. The government has to consider what parts of the recommendations can be implemented immediately and what parts of the recommendations need further attention, in depth study etc and how they make an impact on the country’s future.

'The government has done significant work in connection with implementing the LLRC recommendations and the details were presented in Geneva,” Minister de Silva said.

NG