Parliament will vote on the proposed constitutional amendment at 7.00 p.m. on September 25, following a two-day debate scheduled for September 24 and 25, Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said.

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing today (22), Minister Jayatissa said the vote would be held immediately following the conclusion of the two-day parliamentary debate on the amendment.

The announcement follows the presentation of the Supreme Court’s determination on the proposed constitutional amendment to Parliament today.

Minister Jayatissa said the government had followed all procedures required under the Constitution in proceeding with the amendment.

He said the Supreme Court had provided parties with sufficient opportunity to submit petitions and present their arguments concerning the proposed amendment. The five-judge bench subsequently issued its determination on whether a referendum would be required in addition to the two-thirds majority in Parliament.

The Minister stressed that while individuals and groups have the right to hold protests and public demonstrations against the decision, such protests cannot themselves result in a referendum being called.

He explained that, under the Constitution, the question of whether a referendum is required is ultimately determined by the Supreme Court.

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa also noted that the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) had appeared before the Supreme Court and made submissions on the matter.

According to the Minister, following the Supreme Court’s determination, Parliament is proceeding with the required constitutional process, with the two-day debate on September 24 and 25 and the decisive vote scheduled for 7.00 p.m. on September 25.

Those who disagree with the Supreme Court’s determination remain free to express their views in Parliament and organize demonstrations, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa added.