Speaking at a media briefing held at the Government Information Department today (02), Jayatissa said that the proposal for the extension will be presented to Parliament next week.
Responding to questions about the lapse in the previous emergency, he said, “Definitely. It is being considered, and we are thinking of presenting it to Parliament next week.”
The previous state of public emergency was declared during the aftermath of Cyclone Ditva and ended on February 28, after which the functions of the Commissioner General of Essential Services were abolished.
Jayatissa noted that the decision to consider an extension comes in the wake of rising public concern following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which has triggered fears of potential fuel shortages. As a result, people have been observed unnecessarily queuing at fuel stations across the country.
