Sampanthan and Ranil issue contradicting statements on Interim Report on New Constitution

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Laeder of the Opposition and Leader of the TNA, Era Sampanthan have expressed contradicting opinion yesterday on the interim Report on the New Constitution.

“Terms in Tamil and Sinhala versions had confirmed the term ‘unitary state’ in the Interim Report on the New Constitution. There is no change in this. However  it is being argued whether the term ‘unitary’ should be included in the English version. We are to grant ultimate Power Devolution  within Unitary State system. This has been clearly stated in the Interim Report.” said the Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremasinghe during a meeting with people in Anuradhapura.

During a meeting with people in Mannar, the TNA Leader said, “we are unable say everything publicly as some factions are trying create chaos with what we say. The Centre ought to have powers in  National security, Tri-Forces, Policies on foreign relations, National Transport, Citizenship, Communications, Immigration and Emigration, and Finance.  Provinces will have the powers in Education, Land, Law and Order, Health Agriculture, Fisheries, Employment and Industries.

We are endevouring to enact provisions preventing revocation of powers granted to Provinces. Revocation will  need 2/3 majority in both Parliament and Senate….” , he said.