Petition Challenges President Wickremesinghe’s Candidacy for Upcoming Election
A fundamental rights petition has been filed with the Supreme Court questioning President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s eligibility to run in the presidential election scheduled for September 21. The petition, submitted by lawyer Shan Ranasuriya, alleges that Wickremesinghe has violated constitutional provisions, rendering him unfit to contest the election.
Key Allegations and Requests
- Constitutional Violations:
The petition claims that Wickremesinghe, who took office under Article 30(1) of the Constitution, has breached his pledge to uphold the Constitution. The petitioner argues that Wickremesinghe has not fulfilled his constitutional responsibilities, particularly regarding the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. The petition cites the failure to approve the nomination of Nishanka Bandhula Karunaratne for promotion to the Supreme Court as a significant example of this alleged dereliction.
- Failure to Appoint Acting IGP:
The petition highlights that despite a Supreme Court interim order stating there is no obstacle to appointing an Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Wickremesinghe has not made this appointment. The petitioner argues that this inaction endangers public safety and constitutes a misuse of presidential power. The interim order on the appointment of Deshabandu Tennakoon as IGP, which was issued on July 24, is cited as evidence of the President’s failure to act.
- Election Candidacy Issues:
The petitioner contends that Wickremesinghe’s statement that he cannot appoint an Acting IGP due to his presidential candidacy is unjustified. The petitioner points out that Wickremesinghe has managed to appoint Ali Sabri as Minister of Justice, which undermines his claim of incapacity to make other appointments.
- Request for Supreme Court Action:
The petitioner has requested the Supreme Court to issue an interim restraining order preventing Wickremesinghe from standing as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election. Additionally, the petition calls for the court to order the appointment of a Senior DIG from the Police Department as Acting IGP to ensure effective leadership and public safety.
The case highlights significant legal and constitutional issues, including the President’s adherence to his duties and the broader implications for public safety and electoral integrity. The Supreme Court’s decision on this matter will be closely watched, as it could impact both the upcoming election and the functioning of key public institutions.
Source :- BBC Sinhala
Image Courtesy :- Getty Images
