UNP questions procedure followed in appointing Independent Commissions

28 November 2020 10:12 am - 11 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The United National Party (UNP) yesterday raised concerns over the manner in which the President has chosen to appoint the members of several independent commissions.

“These independent commissions, including the National Election Commission, are vital to protecting the democratic values of the country. Previously it has been the practice that prior to making appointments to these commissions, consultations would be held with the Party Leaders.

This has not happened on this occasion” an official statement from the party said.

While the party does not draw issue with any specific individual appointed to these commissions, the lack of consultation and dialogue on the part of the President has brought the integrity of these institutions into question it added.

“Under the 20th Amendment, the Parliamentary Council is no longer empowered to reject the names nominated by the President. Furthermore, it is difficult to expect the council members to effectively assess 28 individuals for their respective posts when the list is sent in its entirety under a short deadline,” the statement stated.

Under the previously established Constitutional Council, all appointments were thoroughly vetted and on occasions rejected. It was only after proper consultation with all other relevant parties and proper assessment that the concurrence of the Constitutional Council was provided. If the President has deemed that the concurrence of the Parliamentary Council is no longer required, as demonstrated through the 20th Amendment, then the reasoning behind these appointments must be presented to the public. We therefore ask that the President continue to maintain the integrity of these independent commissions, the party said. (YOHAN PERERA)

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Comments - 11

Lumbini Saturday, 28 November 2020 10:43 AM

It is sad to see we are gradually drifting away from democratic values.

Labby Saturday, 28 November 2020 10:58 AM

6.2 wanted this.

Lived in UK Saturday, 28 November 2020 10:59 AM

Vetting and Interviewing for any employment, membership, or position all sound throughly fit and proper. These were created by the Western Countries but they don’t work in practice. If you want an example see how hopeless the West is in handling the Covid crisis, all shambles. We should stop aping the stupid West and start to think our ways.

Patriot Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:06 AM

You all have no right to question anything as we are in a state of utter disarray today bcos of your failure to carry out the task that you were entrusted in 2015

Citizen P Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:21 AM

Who is UNP ?

Samson Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:30 AM

UNP has been rejected by the people. It may be appropriate to seek views from those who did not vote for the govt party.

Sokrates Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:37 AM

Did you still not understand, that the cruel Great Dictator does not care about democracy. In any way you are all guilty that it could happen, that a murderer, war criminal and looter became president.

Jude Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:54 AM

Huh UNP no longer a Party!! UNP HAVE NO MEMBER elected in the parliament, why gov't have to listen to some bunch of loses !!???

Jude Saturday, 28 November 2020 11:55 AM

UNP solely responsible for Easter Sunday attacks!!

Bala Saturday, 28 November 2020 06:42 PM

UNP should point out issues with individual appointees to these independent commissions to rectify mistakes. Opposition parties responsibility.

Joshua Sunday, 29 November 2020 10:57 AM

These kind of decisions and actions were expected from Rajapakshes. Thanks to 6.2 foolish voters. Now sit and cry for 5 more years

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UNP questions procedure followed in appointing Independent Commissions

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