Court ruling bars referendum calls based on public protests

A Cabinet Spokesperson has announced that the courts have delivered a definitive ruling on referendum procedures, stating that public protests or demonstrations cannot serve as a basis for calling a national referendum.

The court's decision establishes clearer legal boundaries around the constitutional mechanism of referendums, addressing concerns about the circumstances under which such processes can be legitimately initiated. According to the Spokesperson, the judgment makes clear that formal, legally-prescribed procedures must be followed rather than allowing public agitation to trigger such constitutional measures.

The ruling comes at a time when Sri Lanka continues navigating complex questions about constitutional reform and democratic processes. The clarification on referendum procedures provides legal certainty for policymakers and the general public regarding how such significant constitutional instruments can be employed.

The court's decision is expected to guide future government and parliamentary actions regarding any proposed referendums, ensuring adherence to established constitutional frameworks and legal procedures rather than responding to street-level pressure or public demonstrations.