The Court of Appeal today fixed for March 31 to deliver its order on the Interim Order prayed by Gampaha District Parliamentarian Ranjan Ramanayake, claiming his right to function as a Parliamentarian.
The Court of Appeal would also make an order whether or not it issues notices on the respondents regarding in respect of the petition.
On January 11, the Supreme Court convicted Ranjan Ramanayake for the offence of contempt of court and sentenced him to a term of four years rigorous imprisonment.
When the writ petition came up before Court of Appeal two-judge-bench comprising Justice (President) Arjuna Obeysekera and Justice Mayadunna Corea, both petitioner and respondent parties informed that they have already filed written submissions with regard to the petition.
Meanwhile, Counsel Suren Fernando appearing for Ranjan Ramanayake emphasised the importance of delivering an order before April 8 because his client is due to complete a three-month-period after being convicted for contempt of court.
Filing this petition though through his lawyers, Ramanayake is seeking an order restraining Secretary General of Parliament from taking any steps to inform the Election Commission that he has vacated his seat as a Member of Parliament.
Ramanayake stated that irreparable harm and damage will be caused to him unless the interim relief is granted to the him inasmuch as he will be deprived of functioning as a Member of Parliament.
The Petitioner further stated that the People’s franchise would also be adversely affected if he is wrongfully prevented from functioning as a representative of his electorate.
