The government intends to pass the provisions of the Anti-Corruption Bill requiring a special majority with a two-thirds majority in Parliament, and does not intend to seek approval through a referendum, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa made the remarks in response to a question raised at the weekly Cabinet media briefing held today (29).

The Supreme Court’s determination on the Bill was recently communicated to Parliament. According to the determination, certain provisions of the Bill can be passed by a simple majority, while others require a special majority.

However, the Supreme Court has determined that Clause 17 requires approval by a special majority as well as approval by the people at a referendum.

Commenting on the matter, Minister Jayatissa said a parliamentary debate on the Bill is scheduled to be held on October 8, followed by a vote.

He said provisions requiring a two-thirds majority could be passed with the required majority in Parliament, adding that the government does not intend to proceed with a referendum.

The Minister further explained that if a referendum is not pursued, the relevant provision could either be amended at the Committee Stage and subsequently submitted for the Attorney General’s approval, or removed from the Bill.

“Once a Bill is referred to the Supreme Court, the Court informs Parliament of the manner in which it can be passed in accordance with the Constitution. Provisions requiring a two-thirds majority can be passed with a two-thirds majority in Parliament,” Minister Jayatissa said.

He added that the parliamentary debate would be held on October 8, followed by a vote, and reiterated that there is no intention to proceed with a referendum.