Amid debate on 13A, Namal Rajapaksa plans a 22A

Even as a political debate on with regard to a full enforcement of the 13th amendment to the constitution, SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa is planning to bring in a 22nd amendment as well, according to party sources.

The MP has told his close associates that he has submitted a related plan to a commission on policies.

At SLPP meetings, Rajapaksa has strongly criticized the president’s statement about fully implementing the 13th amendment, said the sources.

Meanwhile, MP Prof. Charitha Herath, a member of the Dullas Alahapperuma faction, has spoken in support of the president’s suggestion.

He noted that his view was different to that of a majority in his group, who claim the president is without a public mandate to do so.

Herath said the 13th amendment should be implemented and a dialogue initiated together with the Tamil people to develop the country.

He compared it favourably with the development achieved by India through devolving powers amongst its various communities.