The adoption of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution with a two-thirds majority was a historic victory for Sri Lankan society, President Maithripala Sirisena said.

He added that the victory was the result of a 37-year-long struggle by all Sri Lankans.

The President thanked all stakeholders who contributed to this effort, including the Maha Sangha, political parties and civil society groups, active citizens, who struggled, sustained and enriched dialogue on this amendment.

The President thanked the Members of Parliament and political parties who supported this amendment. Though Presidential candidates promised to abolish the executive presidency at five previous occasions, it became a reality only on 28 April.

This is a major step taken to strengthen democracy within the country as it was achieved constitutionally following the recommendations of the Supreme Court and with the consent of all political parties.

Since the adoption of the Constitution in 1978, every amendment apart from the 13th and the 17th amendments bolstered the power of the Executive Presidency.

The 18th Amendment was a reversal of the democratic achievements of the 17th Amendment and unprecedentedly embellished the powers of the Executive President.

President Maithripala added that he believed this victory was significant for current and future generations of Sri Lankans.

Courtesy:Daily FT