Petition against circular suspending bonds on 23rd Feb.

COLOMBO (News 1st); The petition filed with the Supreme Court against the circular issued by Neel Bandara Hapuhinne, the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government to suspend the acceptance of bonds for the Local Government Election, will be taken up for consideration on the 23rd of February.

The matter was called up in the presence of Supreme Court Justices Priyantha Jayawardena, Murdhu Fernando, and Achala Wengappuli on Thursday (16).

President's Counsel Upul Jayasuriya appearing for the petitioner requested the court to consider the petition at an earlier date noting that the circular was issued in an attempt to obstruct the People's Franchise.

Additional Solicitor General Nerin Pulle appearing for the Attorney General informed the court that the letter was issued on the directive of the Cabinet Secretary, and it was recalled several hours later by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

He also noted that an apology was also made to the National Election Commission.

The application was filed by Colombo Mayoral Candidate for the Samagi Jana Balavegaya, Mujibur Rahuman.