No nominations from SLFP for Bhikkus or Priests for elections

Pic by Kithsiri De Mel. 

By Sandun A Jayasekera

The SLFP will not give nominations to Bhikkus or priests of any other religion for the April 25th General election, party spokesman, Weerakumara Dissanayaka said yesterday.   
A large majority of the public are not happy with Bhikkus becoming law makers. Voters think Buddhist monks have a noble duty to perform than plunging into politics. 
He added that the behaviour of certain MPs of the last Parliament will also be taken into account when nominations were being given to former 
law makers.   

Mr. Dissanayaka told the media at the party office last morning that, what ever said and done the main responsibility remains in the hands of the voter to elect their representatives who should be blessed with good character, a sound educational background and a honourable character.   

“I agree with the prelates of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Chapters and other Nikayas who have requested political parties to refrain from including Bhikkus in their nomination lists. It is up to the voter to elect suitable men and women as their representatives in Parliament,” Mr. Dissanayaka stressed.   

However, Mr. Dissanayaka said higher education alone would not stand as the main qualification to be elected as a law maker and added there were many other qualities and characteristics needed to become a ‘Honourable Member of Parliament.

 the behaviour of certain MPs of the last Parliament will also be taken into account when nominations were being given to former law makers