The Government Lacks Capacity to Draft a New Constitution – Wijayadasa

08-Jul-2025

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“We submitted numerous bills in Parliament to address the fundamental problems of the Northern and Eastern people. A government that cannot even pass those bills is in no position to draft a new Constitution,” said former Minister of Justice and Constitutional Reform, President’s Counsel Wijayadasa Rajapakshe.

Discussing the current political climate, he added: “We inherited a country bankrupt both politically and economically. Although I differed with former President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s policies, we fully supported him as he faced these challenges alone during the crisis.”

“Due to Wickremesinghe’s tough decisions, the country recovered from bankruptcy in a short time. However, people made political decisions in 2024 without considering economic factors. Following the Supreme Court’s judgment that political parties were responsible for the bankruptcy, public resentment grew.”

“That is why people formed a new government led by the National People’s Power. Now, there is doubt about whether their expectations have been met.”

“During Wickremesinghe’s tenure, efforts were made to address the long-standing ethnic issue. Yet, even when we introduced a Bill to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission like in South Africa, Tamil representatives strongly opposed it.”

“They demand solutions but reject every proposal. While comprehensive solutions have long been elusive, they also reject partial solutions.”

“With the change in government, the Truth Commission Bill was shelved. We attempted to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act but faced similar opposition.”

“Many bills meant to solve Tamil grievances were sidelined by this government. Drafting a new Constitution requires in-depth study and long-term work. If initiated now, it would take at least two years. This government has no intention or capacity to proceed,” he said.