Formation of a new constitution should be much more transparent

Colombo (News 1st) - Moves to introduce a new constitution have been the subject of much controversy in the recent past. The Island newspaper reported today (Jan 14) that the Minister of Home Affairs, Vajira Abeywardena had stated that the proposed Constitution would be stronger than the 1978 constitution. The Minister of Home Affairs, Vajira Abeywardena also stated that certain sections were attempting to instill fear into the people about the proposed constitutional reforms. The Island Newspaper also reported that the Minister in a speech he made in Galle also promised that they wouldn't let any harmful clauses to be passed. Most Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thera, Anunayaka of the Malwatta Chapter, speaking to MP Bandula Gunawardene earlier today stated that even though the draft of the constitution has not been formulated yet, they have presented interim reports, appointed committees, and had debates. The thero noted that the aspirations of various groups can clearly be identified. He added that some of these aspirations could be harmful to the country. The Most Ven. Thero noted that the process of forming the new constitution should be transparent and that the constitutional assembly convened in 1970 by Sirimavo Bandaranayake to bring about the 1972 constitution was a good example for this. MP Bandula Gunawardena also called on Most Ven. Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera, the Anunayaka of the Asgiri Chapter. The thero questioned how the Parliamentarians can know if the people of the country support a new constitution unless it is brought before them in the form of a referendum. He added that they had spoken with the President on a number of occasions and emphasised the need for him to retain some executive powers. While questioning why the people should believe in public representatives who dance to the tune of other, the thero noted that the proposed system of naming a President through Parliament is very dangerous.