• NPP lawyers cite need for ‘peaceful power transition’

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People's Power (NPP) expressed concern over a potential dissolution of Parliament by the President before the announcement of the Presidential Election results.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday (15), NPP Lawyers' Collective member President's Counsel Upul Kumarapperuma argued that if the President dissolves Parliament on 21 September, before the election results are announced, it would negatively impact the country. He made these remarks in response to a question posed regarding the allegations made by certain parties that the President is to dissolve the Parliament on the Election night.

He stressed the importance of a peaceful power transition without unnecessary chaos. "Although the Constitution grants the President the power to dissolve Parliament in such a situation, doing so amidst the election would create further issues," Kumarapperuma remarked. He highlighted that while the President does have constitutional authority, such an action could be detrimental to the citizens and exacerbate the country's problems.

Kumarapperuma also stated: "The President is granted power by the Constitution to act in such a manner, but if he proceeds with dissolving Parliament during the election period, it would be the worst thing for the country” stressing the importance of maintaining stability during the transition of power.

In contrast, Education Minister Dr. Susil Premajayntha, speaking at a rally recently, noted that if President Ranil Wickremesinghe is re-elected, he would only dissolve Parliament after ensuring the approval of benefits for the people and the passage of crucial legislation.

However, during an election rally held in June, senior NPP officials claimed that if they are victorious, they will dissolve the Parliament on the night they win.