Sajith criticises President's shift on constitutional amendment referendum

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called out President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for what he characterises as a policy reversal regarding a planned public referendum on constitutional amendments.

Premadasa's remarks underscore deepening political divisions as the government proceeds with its constitutional reform programme. The U-turn on the referendum pledge represents a significant shift from the President's earlier stated position on how constitutional changes should be presented to the electorate.

The constitutional amendment process has emerged as a focal point of contention between the ruling administration and opposition parties. Questions over whether major constitutional changes should require public endorsement through referendum have become increasingly contentious as legislative efforts advance.

The controversy reflects broader concerns about the government's commitment to broader democratic consultation on constitutional matters. Opposition figures have questioned whether citizens will have adequate opportunity to weigh in on significant institutional reforms.

As deliberations continue in Parliament, the debate over constitutional amendment procedures remains a key battleground between the government and opposition alliance.