RW parliamentary seat challenged : Decision on petition to be given on May 21

Colombo (News 1st): The writ petition filed at the Court of Appeal challenging the parliamentary seat of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was taken up before Justices Priyantha Fernando and Shiran Gunaratne today (Feb 26). President's Counsel K. Kanagisvaran appearing for the Prime Minister filed a preliminary objection. The decision regarding the objection is due to be delivered by the justices on May 21st. The petitioners and respondents were ordered by the court to file their written submission in court on or before April 1st. The petition was filed claiming Ranil Wickremesinghe cannot hold a parliamentary seat as he is the main shareholder of a private company named Lake House Printers & Publishers that generates revenue through services provided to government institutions. Sharmila Gonewala in her petition notes according to the constitution, a member of parliament cannot enter into business transactions with the government. The petition seeks a writ of quo warranto to be issued preventing Ranil Wickremesinghe from functioning as a parliamentarian. Speaking to News 1st Councillor Shermila Gonawala said she believes that this case will be a landmark in the history of Sri Lankan politics. She noted that this case was not filed to cause embarrassment or disgrace to anyone. She believes that the verdict will be a solution to bribery and corruption in the country. Gonawala noted that this case was filed for the benefit of the public and that she has faith in the judiciary and hopes for a favorable response.

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