It is not democratic, it is immoral and is a complete contradiction of democratic principles, he accused today.

“On behalf of the United National Party (UNP) and common opposition, I challenge the Mahinda Rajapaksa government to hold the Northern Provincial Council election immediately.” Provide that democratic right to the people in the North, he demanded.

The Gampaha District MP pointed out that although 3 years has passed since terrorism was completely eradicated, the North, which does not have a Provincial Council with representatives elected by the people, is still governed by a former military officer.

“We have no personal grudge or anger against him, but give civil administration to the people in the North,” he requested the government to express sincere dedication and willingness to accomplish it.

Jayawardena stated that the 17th Amendment to the Constitution, which promised to depoliticize and to establish constitutional committee for appointing of independent police, election and state services commissions, was rejected by the ruling government using an “artificial two-thirds majority.”

The United People’s Freedom Alliance does not have a two-thirds majority in Parliament from the public’s vote, he claimed.

The parliamentarian went on to challenge the government to establish an independent police commission, independent election commission and independent state services commission and hold elections. “We (UNP) are prepared for any election.”

Addressing the media at a press conference for ‘Vipakshaye Virodaya’ - a joint opposition front against the government, the MP also challenged the government to legalize the Right to Information Bill, which the UNP has attempted bring on several unsuccessful occasions.

“Why is (government) afraid of the Right to Information Bill?,” he inquired.

Siritunga Jayasuriya of the United Socialist Party (CWI) and Nava Sama Samaja Party leader Dr. Wickramabahu Karunaratne also participated in the media briefing.