August 25, Colombo (LNW): The Supreme Court today (25) began hearing a series of petitions challenging the constitutionality of a government-backed bill aimed at revoking the privileges afforded to former presidents.
The legal challenge, brought by six petitioners, contends that the proposed legislation cannot be lawfully enacted without both a two-thirds majority in Parliament and approval via a nationwide referendum. The petitioners argue that the bill, if passed without satisfying these conditions, would violate key constitutional safeguards.
The matter is being reviewed by a three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena, Justice Achala Wengappuli, and Justice Sampath Abeykoon. During today’s proceedings, legal representatives for the petitioners began presenting their arguments before the bench.
Appearing for the state, Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne defended the bill on behalf of the government, signalling the administration’s intent to proceed with the legislation amid growing political and legal scrutiny.
Among the petitioners are Renuka Perera, Administrative Secretary of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP); Mahinda Pathirana, a university lecturer; and Attorney Manoj Gamage, who serves as the media spokesperson for former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Others with political and legal affiliations have also joined the challenge, indicating the wider implications of the bill within the current political landscape.