Minister Harin Fernando says the country has depleted economically, socially, and politically adding they took on posts in the government to help uplift the country for future generations and in order to bring about stability. Minister Fernando speaking at a media briefing today said the draft of the 21st Amendment to the Constitution is due to be tabled during the Cabinet of Ministers meeting tonight, and claimed that in the event it isn’t tabled, he will step down from his posts as Minister.
The Minister added those engaged in protests are calling for the enactment of the 21st Amendment and to establish independent commissions, claiming it is essential if they seek to establish a democratically independent country. He noted that when it is passed in Cabinet, the next step lies with Parliament, adding they hope Parliament will heed public requests and pass the 21st Amendment.
Minister Harin Fernando also stated that the draft of the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution is currently being compiled and formulated by Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe. Minister Fernando also stated that they expect fuel queues to reduce during the next two to three days, adding that he spoke to subject Minister Kanchana Wijesekera, who is confident that the fuel queues will be addressed.
The Minister also recalled a statement by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe that sufficient funds are in place to ensure a steady supply of fuel till the 8th of June and said what we need to do is ensure necessary fuel is imported during the next three months.
The Tourism Minister also stated that discussions were held yesterday on reviving the tourism industry and looking at short-term plans and facilitating the arrival of 10,000-15,000 tourists in the interim. Minister Fernando claimed the Ministerial post is not a crown to be worn but a suicide mission, as they have a herculean task before them.
