The Hon. (Prof.) A.H.M.H. Abayarathna - Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, in considering the matters raised in this debate, I note that many issues cited are already addressed within the Bill we have presented. For example, regarding deposits: this Bill already provides that deposits made should be refunded to the person who made them. Clause 2(3) states that where the receipt issued under section 29(3) of the Ordinance is produced by the person who made the deposit, it shall be refunded to that person. Therefore, I believe the issue regarding refund of deposits does not arise.

¶ 02 Hon. Speaker, based on the views expressed here, an impression has been created from the Opposition that the Government is fixing the election date. However, the responsibility to fix the date lies with the Election Commission. We are only introducing this amendment. The responsibility for fixing the date is with the Commission.

¶ 03 If we did not bring this amendment, we would be compelled to conduct the election according to the nominations submitted in early 2023. If we conducted the election on those nominations, it could give rise to a number of serious issues. Therefore, everyone accepted the need for this Bill to resolve that problem. As I stated this morning, this Bill has been brought with the agreement of all party leaders represented in Parliament—for the sole purpose of calling for fresh nominations. All agreed to that.

¶ 04 However, we sense something now. Generally, an Opposition asks that elections be held as soon as possible. But at this moment, we feel they want a postponement, judging by their arguments and submissions. My friend from Kurunegala said you only truly understand after gaining experience. Even having gained experience, please do not now behave like crabs. The Opposition is now using excuses—that the Budget debate is on, that the O/L examination is on—like using palm-leaf strips to eat dried fish so the hands do not smell. They are using such pretexts to delay elections. I believe they cannot do that. Let the Election Commission take the decisions it must. We in Parliament, with everyone’s agreement, should pass this Bill.

¶ 05 Furthermore, today is a historic day, Hon. Speaker. This is the first time in this Parliament that a single party has secured more than a two-thirds majority to pass a Bill. Therefore, it is a historic occasion. I invite our friends in the Opposition also to join in supporting this occasion.