A discussion between PAFFREL and the Communist Party
The first in a series of discussions between PAFFREL and political parties was held today (02) at the office of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, Colombo 08.
On this occasion a copy of the book on PAFFREL's proposal to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Electoral Reform in Sri Lanka was also presented to the Communist Party. A comprehensive discussion was held on how to formulate an effective system of representation in a new electoral system, the need to increase youth representation and women's representation in politics, formulation of formal mechanisms to ensure the right to vote within the country and abroad and about ensuring an equal field in the electoral process.
Also attention was drawn to the issues such as updating the Assets and Liabilities Act, the relationship between the politicians and the citizens. The recent ruling given by the Moneragala High Court depriving a councilor elected to the local government of his seat over an election petition was also discussed at this meeting.
Mr. Rohana Hettiarachchi, Executive Director joined the discussion representing PAFFREL and stated that the political parties that had held ruling power have amended the Constitution to consolidate their political survival. He said that time has come to put an end to this practice.
Representatives of the Communist Party who participated in the discussion pointed out that there is no conflict between the views of PAFFREL and the Communist Party regarding the reformation of the electoral system. They asserted that the Communist Party will always appear for the development of the political culture.
At this discussion, the Communist Party was represented by Messers G. Weerasinghe, its General Secretary, DEW Gunasekara, former Minister Weerasumana Weerasinghe, MP, S. Sudasinha, Deputy Chief Secretary, Wilfred Jayasinghe, Deputy Organizer, Sani Wijesinghe, Organizing Secretary. The PAFFREL was represented by Messess Rohana Hettiarachchi, Executive Director, Cristobal Savarimuttu, Treasurer, and K.N. Dean, Deputy Chairman.
