• Most clauses of 21A proposed by SJB needs a referendum if it is to be enacted
• 21st Amendment is essential to bring about political and economic stability

By Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana   

The new 21st Amendment which received the cabinet nod on Monday is something which is close to the 19th Amendment, Minister of Justice Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe told Parliament yesterday.  

“We have seen to it that the new legislation is as close to the 19th Amendment as possible,” he said.   
“The new legislation comprises clauses which can be approved without a referendum unlike 21A proposed by the SJB. Most of the clauses of the 21st Amendment proposed by the SJB needs a referendum if it is to be enacted,” the Minister said.   

“Some question whether 21A will fill stomachs or whether it will resolve the fuel, gas and power crisis, but it is important though one might not think that way. Many donors including the IMF had wanted democracy and rule of law ensured in Sri Lanka before they agree to assist us. Therefore the 21st Amendment is essential to bring about political and economic stability,” he said.