September 24, Colombo (LNW): Access to Parliament from the Polduwa Junction in Battaramulla was brought to a standstill today as supporters of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) gathered for a demonstration against the Government’s proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution.
The protest began at around 9.30am, with a sizeable crowd assembling at Polduwa Junction despite persistent rain in the Battaramulla area. SJB Leader and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa was among those taking part, alongside party MPs, officials and supporters.
As the demonstration grew, protesters moved towards the Parliament entrance, effectively blocking the approach road and triggering significant traffic disruption across Battaramulla and surrounding areas.
Addressing the gathering, Premadasa criticised the proposed constitutional changes, alleging that the legislation could weaken the country’s system of governance and the rule of law. He also challenged the Government to conduct Provincial Council elections, questioning whether it was prepared to proceed with the polls.
The demonstration coincides with the commencement of the Second Reading debate on the 22nd Amendment Bill in Parliament. MPs are scheduled to consider the legislation over today and tomorrow, with the Judicature (Amendment) Bill also included in the parliamentary agenda.
The SJB had announced the protest in advance, with party General Secretary and MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara stating that the opposition party objected to the proposed constitutional changes. The SJB has argued that the amendment could create conditions conducive to excessive concentration of power.
The proposed legislation has been under scrutiny since it was introduced, particularly because of provisions concerning the retirement ages of judges of the superior courts. It has also prompted constitutional petitions before the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court’s determination on the Bill was communicated to Parliament by the Speaker on 22 September. The Court concluded that the proposed amendment did not require approval through a referendum and could proceed through Parliament, subject to the changes identified in its determination.
The Government has consequently moved ahead with the parliamentary process, with the Second Reading debate now taking place against the backdrop of the opposition demonstration outside Parliament.
The protest has added to an already busy day around the parliamentary complex, with traffic movement significantly affected in the vicinity of Polduwa Junction as MPs continue deliberations on the controversial constitutional proposal.
Photo Courtesy: Ajith Senevirathne