Presidency — Retain Or Scrap?

Once again there is talk of scrapping the Executive Presidency.Some are for its retention whilst others support it’s abolition. Even during the presidency of Chandika Kumaratunga, politicians of all hues spoke of abolishing the Executive Presidency but nothing came of it

The  Executive Presidency, introduced by the late J.R.J = the Old Fox as they referred to him, may have been established to satisfy his ego and also to wield unbridled power. The main reason to abolish the Executive Presidency is this extraordinary power. Otherwise future heads of State with despotic visions may thwart the democractic process in order to satisfy their egos.

Of course the incumbent President has done something previous Presidents could not do – he ended a 30 year war which most nations and organizations said was UNWINNABLE. He must be commended for ending the war and bringing back PEACE to this nation. However, he must now address his mind towards implementing the 13th and 17th  Amendments and the establishment of the Constitutional Council and other Commissions.

Politicians need to debate the Executive Presidency, and reach a conclusion which is beneficial to the citizenry of Sri Lanka.

Vernon Dawson
Dehiwala