Sri Lanka political crisis: Church of Ceylon against 'unconstitutional' removal of PM Wickremesinghe

The Diocese of Colombo of the Church of Ceylon pointed out that there were no provisions in the present Constitution to remove a sitting Prime Minister
Sri Lanka's sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe (C) speaks with party members at his official residence in Colombo | AP
Sri Lanka's sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe (C) speaks with party members at his official residence in Colombo | AP

COLOMBO: The Church of Ceylon on Sunday made a strong objection to sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe from the Prime Ministerial post, saying that arbitrary removal of a sitting Prime Minister in an unconstitutional manner will plunge the nation into a state of instability, fear and chaos.

The Diocese of Colombo of the Church of Ceylon pointed out that there were no provisions in the present Constitution to remove a sitting Prime Minister, as the 19th amendment has reduced the President's executive powers and transferred such powers to the Prime Minister in Parliament.

''The Democratic frame work enshrined in our Constitution should not be abused for political expediency,'' the Church said in a statement issued here.

''We urge the instruments of the State, Religious Institutions and all peace-loving people of our country to join hands to uphold Democratic values and peace with justice for all, as well as the rule of law for the greater common good of the people of our country, and the preservation of Democratic institutions, so that all communities that call Sri Lanka, home may live without fear and intimidation.

''We further call upon the Police and Tri Forces to act impartially and with restraint in the enforcing of law and order,'' it added.

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