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Leader of the House Minister Lakshman Kiriella, following the Supreme Court determination on the 19th Amendment to the constitution, said the government viewed the court's decision positively and it was a step that strengthened Parliamentary democracy.

He also added that the national unity government, which came to power after presidential polls in January, was ready to transfer enormous powers, wielded by one man, to the 225 MPs in Parliament.

Following are excerpts from his interview.

Q: How will the Supreme Court determination affect the implementation of the constitutional amendment?

A: We welcome the Supreme Court's determination and consider it as a positive development. This determination will not make any impact on the core of the constitutional reforms which we envisaged. The most important aspect of the determination is the provision saying the President must act on the Prime Minister's advice. It is something that strengthens Parliamentary democracy. That is what we have been fighting for over the past two decades.

Q: But, according to the Supreme Court determination, the Prime Minister has lost his say in the appointment of a minister. Don't you consider that as a setback where Parliamentary democracy is concerned?

A: No. Although the President will appoint the Cabinet of ministers he will act in the advice of the Prime Minister. That will ensure checks and balances and the Parliamentary democracy will be strengthened. The setting up of independent commissions, which were introduced under the 17th Amendment, is a major victory for anyone who respects democracy. The most important characteristic in this whole process is the spirit with which the constitutional amendment was introduced. Previously, so many rulers who led this country introduced amendments to the constitution to acquire more power. Such attempts were aimed at consolidating their power. This is the first time, a leader has introduced a constitutional amendment to relinquish power. That is something every political party should appreciate. Especially with the setting up of independent commissions, the powers which were previously vested in the Executive President, has been transferred to independent bodies. This is the sort of change 62.5 million people in this country voted for at the last presidential election.

Q: You stated a few days ago that the Sri Lanka Freedom Party was facing a split. Will that possible "split" prevent the government from securing a two thirds majority for the constitutional amendment?

A: The SLFP is facing a split and that was quite evident when the treasury bills regulation was taken for vote. Earlier, the Opposition Leader said they would not go for a vote on the resolution and a few hours later, a group of opposition MPs went for a vote. Even the Opposition Leader asked his members not to stab in the back. So clearly there is a division. But, I think when the President convenes his Parliamentary group, he will be in a position to address the matter and draw their support.

Link:
'Supreme Court determination on 19A strengthened democracy'