We would protest stranger Parliamentary Secretary, says UNP

 UNP Media Unit chief MP Lakshman Kiriela said at a press conference held in the official residence of the Opposition Leader yesterday (28) that UNP would protest almost daily basis if the President appointed the Parliamentary Secretary violating the constitution. The appointment ought to be made by the Constitutional Council that has to be established under the 17th amendment to the constitution.

Current Parliamentary Secretary is to retire by the end of March.

Mr. Kiriella said that the President could appoint the Parliamentary Secretary if only the Constitutional Council approved the appointment.

The MP further said that the Parliamentary Secretary is appointed with the consent of the party leaders according to the British tradition. According to the 17th amendment to the constitution, the Constitutional Council comprised of the Prime Minister, Speaker, Opposition Leader and the party representatives recommends the appointment of the Parliamentary Secretary. Violation of this principle amounts to breach of parliamentary privileges, said Mr. Kiriella.

He said that the MPs retain the right to protest such a stranger to the parliament and the UNP would continue the protest each day the parliament would meet