(FMM/IFEX) – The following is an 11 July 2001 FMM press release: Prorogation of parliament and call for an immediate referendum a clear violation of democracy FMM condemns the presidential order, given at 12:00 p.m. on 10 July 2001, to prorogue the parliament for two months and to hold a referendum on whether or not […]
(FMM/IFEX) – The following is an 11 July 2001 FMM press release:
Prorogation of parliament and call for an immediate referendum a clear violation of democracy
FMM condemns the presidential order, given at 12:00 p.m. on 10 July 2001, to prorogue the parliament for two months and to hold a referendum on whether or not the Sri Lankan people want a new constitution. FMM considers this a clear violation of Sri Lankan people’s fundamental democratic rights. It is evident that the aim of the prorogation and referendum is to evade the no-confidence motion submitted to parliament by the joint opposition. FMM believes that the main aim of this prorogation is to prevent and postpone the set of democratic reforms proposed by the joint opposition.
FMM has been, along with many civil and political organisations, working to achieve these democratic reforms in Sri Lanka. FMM believes that, before the government asks people to vote on the requirement of a new constitution, there should be sufficient time to discuss and debate the issue in order for people to make an informed judgment. The government’s decision is nothing more than an attempt to maintain power even after becoming a parliamentary minority. FMM is concerned that another vote rigging exercise must be in the cards according to this strategy and that this is the reason behind the government’s refusal to accept the democratic demands.
FMM notes that no ruler or regime has the right to abuse and violate the referendum process, which is part and parcel of people’s right to freedom of expression. The fact that this order has been issued outside the constitutionally stipulated process highlights the dangers faced by the country’s democratic system today.
FMM calls for a broad mobilisation to reverse the government’s undemocratic measures. FMM requests that civil and political forces create a common ground to defend the parliamentary democracy enjoyed by Sri Lankans, leaving aside the differences for the time being.
