Obtaining a two-thirds majority in parliament alone doesn't mean that problems can be solved but it requires a well coordinated strategy coupled with a rational approach, Minister of Justice Ali Sabry PC said.
 
He noted that many governments that received a two-thirds majority in the recent past weren't able to capitalise on that opportunity.


He opined that at first glance, it seems as if almost every government that has obtained a two-thirds majority has mismanaged it. He added that the current government should also be prepared to face that reality.

The Justice Minister made these observations in an interview with the "Vරළ" media platform, a new venture by a group of youth headed by a 16-year-old entrepreneur.

Allaying fears of those who have observed the centralisation of power in the hands of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, he said that various safeguards are available to protect democratic rights even under an Executive Presidency.

President's decisions can be questioned in court

Minister Sabry further said that the Supreme Court is empowered to question certain decisions made by the President and that there are provisions to bring forth a motion to impeach him.

He recalled how Sirimavo Bandaranaike extended her term in office from 1975 to 1977 through parliament as well as how Prime Minister J.R. Jayewardene amended the Constitution in 1978 to become the Executive President.

The discussion was moderated by the former Chief Executive Officer of the Bodu Bala Sena and lecturer Dilantha Vithanage.

The "Vරළ" media platform will focus on promoting constructive journalism with the aim of educating and mobilising the public in order to make a clear difference in the country.

 

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