JVP deplores "shameless" attempt to increase cabinet ministers by forming national govt.

JVP General Secretary Vijitha Herath has said that the government is engaging in a shameful effort to increase the number of cabinet ministers by attempting to form a national government.

“The country has suffered on several occasions in the past due to the infinite appointments of Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and State Ministers” MP VIjitha Herath told reporters at a press briefing today.

He added that when the 19^th constitutional amendment was initially proposed it was decided to limit the number of cabinet ministers to 30 and state minsters to 40.

“However, in the eleventh hour of passing the amendment, a clause was introduced into the amendment stating that the number of cabinet ministers could be increased if a national government is formed,” he said while recalling that the amendment was passed despite the JVP protesting against it.

The JVP parliamentarian also said that if a national government is to be formed the it must be passed in Parliament.

The government at that time deleted the clause which permitted the number of cabinet ministers to expand upto 100, he added. However, he pointed out that the government is now attempting to increase the quantity of cabinet ministers by forming a national government.

Speaking further, Mr. Herath said that there is a huge conflict within the UNP government.

“Certain ministers are not satisfied with their portfolios. Ministers such as Ravi Karunanayake are making various statements since he did not receive the Finance Ministry” he remarked.

He also said that the tussle for the positions of Minister, Deputy Minster and State Minister are no secret to the people.

In addition, he also claimed that certain ministries such as the Labour Ministry do not have a minister as of yet.

“Section 46 of the constitution clearly states the maximum amount of cabinet ministers that can be appointed. If there is a plan for an increase, then the matter can be debated in Parliament and then finalised” Mr. Herath said.

He claimed that the present government is attempting to form a national government by including the sole parliamentarian of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and increase the number of ministers thereafter.

“MP Lakshman Kiriella has said that he would put forth the proposal for a national government and include it in the order paper as well. However, this is being done to include the SLMC MP who is already in the government” the JVP General Secretary said while adding that it was a shameless act.

The government is taking several measures according to their own whims and fancies and later claiming that they did it for the betterment of the country, he said while adding that this was similar to climbing a juggery tree.