President Maithripala Sirisena and Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa have decided to oppose the decision taken by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to abolish the Executive Presidency.
The two leaders had taken this decision during an hour long meeting held at the President’s Official residence on August 27th.
The Prime Minister had proposed the abolishment of the Executive Presidency to the Opposition Leader.
The Opposition Leader had agreed to discuss the matter with the President and the meeting between the two leaders was held.
It is reported that Mahinda Rajapaksa had said this is not the right time to abolish the Executive Presidency and it could result in the country being plunged into a crisis.
Talks to join hands with SLPP
The President had agreed to Rajapaksa’s stand and added that as per the 19th Amendment, the 20th Amendment for the abolition of the Executive Presidency could not be brought in.
The two leaders had finally decided not to abolish the Executive Presidency.
The two leaders had also discussed the amalgamation of the SLFP and the SLPP.
They had agreed to consider the proposals forwarded by the two committees and take a decision.
The two leaders had also agreed to include the SLPP presidential candidate Gotabhaya Rajapaksa during their future meetings.
SLFP, SLPP agreement for 30 Ministers
Meanwhile, UPFA General Secretary Mahinda Amaraweera said that the SLPP had agreed to limit the Cabinet to 30 members and change the electoral system.
The SLPP had also agreed to the proposals presented towards the upliftment of the national economy.
Amaraweera noted that subsequent to the discussions between the two leaders the representatives of both parties would hold discussions, adding that the next president would be a candidate who is supported by the SLFP.
(Mirror)