UNP briefs Mahanayaka theros on new constitution

Colombo (News1st): A group of UNP MPs made a presentation on the new constitutional proposals to the Mahanayake's of the Asgiri and Malwatte Chapters. The members of parliament who visited the Asgiri Viharaya in Kandy visited the Mahanayake of the Asgiriya Chapter Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thero and informed him about the new constitutional process and proposals. Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Thero the Mahanayake of the Malwathu Chapter was also given a brief on the new constitutional proposals at the Malwatte Maha Viharaya today (January 18). Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Thero stated that they will not discuss the contents as there is serious opposition to it. He noted that no one wishes to see the division of the country. Min. Kiriella who was present at the occasion noted that this report would be presented to Parliament and it is the Parliament that would create the draft constitution and not the Government. Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara and Palitha Range Bandara both called on Venerable Medagama Dhammananda Thero, the Registrar of the Asgiri Chapter of the Siam Sect. The most venerable thero noted that issues have arisen with regard to the constitution due to statements made by MP M.A. Sumanthiran. Min. Madduma Bandara intervened and stated that whatever statements are made the constitution needs a 2/3rds majority to pass in Parliament. The thero who read the report brought in by the UNP Ministers highlighted several concerns that he had with the language of the report, especially on the status of Buddhism and the powers of the Government. He added that it is best if a discussion is held with the President and the mahanayake theros in order to resolve all doubts regarding the constitution.