The FR petition filed by the SJB and NPP was refixed for argument on November 21 by the SC.

The Fundamental Rights petitions filed by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the National People’s Party (NPP), and several others seeking an order directing the authorities to hold a free and fair local government election were today re-fixed for argument by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya fixed the petitions to be taken up for argument on November 21, 22, 29, and 30.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court decided to re-issue notices to the Chairman and members of the newly appointed National Election Commission.

The petitioners filed these petitions, naming Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardena, Attorney General, Election Commission, and several others as respondents.

The petitioners stated that the budget circular issued by the Treasury Secretary based on a Cabinet decision is unconstitutional and contrary to the law.

The petitioners are seeking a declaration that their fundamental rights guaranteed to them under Articles 12(1) and 14(1)(a) of the Constitution have been infringed upon by the respondents.

Meanwhile, the Fundamental Rights petition filed by People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL) and the Centre for Policy Alternatives was also fixed for argument by the Supreme Court.