Talks deadlocked: JHU threatens street protests

Ven. Rathana bitterly disappointed

by Shamindra Ferdinando-October 29, 2014,

 Ongoing high profile talks between the SLFP and the JHU to resolve a simmering dispute over the latter’s constitutional and political reform proposals primarily meant to dilute presidential powers have failed to produce the desired results.

JHU proposals are about political reforms and a range of other contentious issues including police and land powers in the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.

Except the JVP, other political parties while demanding the abolition of the executive presidency/pruning of presidential powers remain committed to the 13th Amendment.

JHU MP Ven. Athureliye Rathana yesterday told The Island that he was bitterly disappointed at the situation. Referring to talks, the two parties had on Monday (Oct 27) and Tuesday (Oct 28) at Temple Trees, Ven. Rathana Thera insisted that there hadn’t been any progress contrary to various views expressed by various parties.

Ven. Rathana declared that the JHU was preparing to lead a public protest campaign early next month to pressure the SLFP.

Two rounds of talks between the two parties were held consequent to a meeting chaired by President Rajapaksa on October 21, during which the President allegedly left abruptly.

The JHU delegation comprised Minister Champika Ranawaka and Western Province Minister Udaya Gammanpila. The SLFP delegation consisted of UPFA General Secretary and Minister Susil Premjayantha,

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and Minister Dallas Alahapperuma.

Minister Premjayantha yesterday told The Island that talks were continuing. Asked whether they intended to conclude the talks within a specific period, Minister Premjayantha said that negotiations would continue.

Ven. Rathana said that the JHU would go ahead with its campaign regardless of consequences.

JHU spokesman Nishantha Sri Warnasinghe told The Island that they had several options in case the ongoing talks failed.

Warnasinghe said that their support to the ruling coalition would depend on the outcome of talks.