Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa today raised concerns over the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, cautioning that public statements by government representatives on matters that could come before the judiciary risk undermining confidence in judicial independence.
Speaking at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, Rajapaksa said that comments appearing to anticipate court decisions could raise doubts about the impartiality of the judiciary. He stressed that recent discussions on judicial independence had underscored the importance of allowing courts to carry out their duties free from political influence.
Turning to recent controversies, Rajapaksa questioned whether some investigations may have focused on selected individuals, calling for a comprehensive review of findings. He said the SLPP was continuing to study the reports and insisted that proper assessment and fair investigations were necessary before drawing conclusions.
On the political front, Rajapaksa said the SLPP would strengthen its grassroots engagement ahead of future elections by visiting communities across the country. He noted that the party had helped bring the President closer to the people and would continue to focus on direct community interaction.
“We have to go from village to village for the presidency today. We have been able to take the President from the AC room in Colombo 7 to the main road and bring him closer to the people,” he said.
Rajapaksa also urged the Government to prioritize issues directly affecting the public, including the timely provision of fertiliser, the purchase of paddy, fuel concessions for fishermen, support for graduates, and assistance to industries facing difficulties. He emphasized that constitutional changes should be considered carefully and must not undermine public confidence in democratic institutions or the rule of law.
Meanwhile, commenting on the potential impact of El Niño conditions, Rajapaksa said successive governments had previously prepared contingency plans based on forecasts of adverse weather and urged timely preventive measures to ensure institutions were adequately prepared. (Newswire)