ASG says it needs approval by the people at a referendum

Several Special Determination petitions have come up before the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the proposed 21st amendment, to the constitution. 

Several petitioners, including Dr Gunadasa Amarasekara and Anil Amarasekara, had filed these petitions naming the Attorney General as respondents. The petitioners are seeking a declaration that the bill requires approval by the people at a referendum and requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament.

The petitioners alleged that the proposed 21st Amendment would affect the sovereignty of the people recognized under Articles 3 and 4 of the constitution as it attempts to curtail the powers of the President.

The draft bill of the 21st amendment was presented to Parliament by Samagi Jana Balawegaya General Secretary Ranjith Madduma. 

Additional Solicitor General Indika Demuni de Silva appearing for the Attorney General informed Supreme Court that the bill requires the approval of the people, at a referendum.