The government is prepared to hold a referendum if the Supreme Court determines that one is required to pass the proposed 22nd Constitutional Amendment, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said.
Speaking at a public gathering, Minister Jayatissa said the government would abide by the Supreme Court’s determination on whether the amendment can be passed with a two-thirds majority in Parliament or whether it must also be put to a referendum.
The Supreme Court’s decision is expected by late September or October, he said.
“By the end of September or around October, we will be ready to proceed according to whatever the Supreme Court decides. If a two-thirds majority in Parliament is required, we will proceed accordingly. If a referendum is required, we are ready for that as well,” Jayatissa said.
He maintained that the proposed amendment was introduced in the interests of the public and said the government would continue with its reform agenda regardless of the constitutional process required.
“This was brought forward for the people. A reform carried out for the people will definitely move forward,” he said.
