Opposition leader reminds government of the sovereignty of the people.

A special party leaders meeting was held in parliament including the President. The Opposition Leader and  Anura Kumara Dissanayake boycotted.
 
The leader of the opposition, Sajith Premadasa, cited the reason for him not to attend as follows.

"As the leader of the opposition I have decided not to participate in the meeting called by the President today (18/01/2023) for the purpose of urgently bringing the Regulation of Election Expenditure Bill

The main reason for that is the inability to tolerate the deceitful tactics of depriving the people of their right to vote, which is the sovereign right of the people, even though an election has been announced.

Also, the constitution of this country has clearly divided the powers into legislature, executive and judiciary, and through it, protection and inclusion which is a high characteristic of democracy has been confirmed.

The elected president, who was not appointed by the people and is without a mandate, is exerting an executive influence on the legislature like no other president in history.

As the leader of the opposition elected by the people, it is my inviolable responsibility to stand up for the honor and safety of the parliament, which is the supreme body of all the members of parliament and the people as a whole.

Therefore, I emphasize that no matter what other parties participate in this meeting called by the President, I cannot participate according to my conscience and mandate."