AMN / WEB DESK
Western nations led by US and UK have expressed concern over the dissolution of Sri Lanka parliament while new government maintains that President was within his powers to do so.
The United States said, it is deeply concerned by the news that Sri Lanka Parliament has been dissolved, further deepening the political crisis. In a statement, it said they believe democratic institutions and processes need to be respected to ensure stability and prosperity.
The United Kingdom also raised concerns over the decision to dissolve the Parliament days before it was due to be reconvened. Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs said in a statement they believe this action undermines Sri Lanka’s long democratic tradition and poses a risk to its stability and prosperity. Similar views were expressed by Canada another nations.
Meanwhile, the ministers of new government under Mahinda Rajapaksa today defended the decision saying there are constitutional provisions for dissolution and it was the only way to override the ongoing crisis.
Earlier, United National Front (UNF) led by ousted Prime minister Ranil Wickresmsinghe has decided to challenge in Supreme court the President’s decision to dissolve parliament.
The decision was reached after a parliamentary group meeting of UNF this morning and the case will be filed on Monday. UNF and some smaller parties termed the move as illegal, unconstitutional and unacceptable. President Maithripala Sirisena had dissolved the Parliament through a gazette notification last night and called for elections on fifth of January.