Petitions against death penalty dismissed; Land Provisions bill withdrawn

COLOMBO (News 1st) -  Deputy Speaker Ananda Kumarasiri informed Parliament today(August 20), the Supreme Court dismissed three petitions challenging the private member's bill to abolish the death penalty. Deputy Speaker added that the petitions were dismissed as the Supreme Court has no jurisdiction to check whether a bill has been drafted according to the constitution. Meanwhile, the State Land Special Provisions Bill was withdrawn by the ruling party. Lakshman Kiriella, Leader of the House stated that the government's intention was to grant deeds to 2.5mn Sri Lankans who are without a deed to their land and unfortunately the opposition sought courts to stand against the bill. UPFA MP, Bandula Gunawardana responded that they did not seek legal help for what the leader of the house is claiming and the opposition went against the ulterior motive behind it; to assist foreign nations to purchase Sri Lankan land. He went on to note that they agree on the decision to withdraw the bill and it was a victory for the opposition. UPFA MP, Sisira Jayakody confirmed that the sole intention of the opposition was to stop ownership of the Sri Lankan land ending up with foreigners. UPFA MP, Wimal Weerawansa added that they are not against the practice of providing land deeds for people and if it's carried out accordingly without foreigners purchasing Sri Lankan lands.