Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has said the Government intends to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament to pass the relevant provisions of the proposed Anti-Corruption Bill, ruling out plans to hold a national referendum.
Speaking at the Cabinet press briefing yesterday (29), the Minister said the Bill would be debated in Parliament on October 8, followed by a vote.
His remarks came after the Supreme Court communicated its determination on the Bill to Parliament, identifying provisions that could be passed with a simple majority and others requiring a special majority.
The Supreme Court has determined that Clause 17 of the Bill requires approval by a two-thirds majority in Parliament as well as approval by the people at a referendum.
However, Minister Jayatissa said the Government expected to secure the required two-thirds majority for the relevant provisions in Parliament and had no plans to proceed with a referendum.
“When any Bill is reviewed by the Supreme Court, the Court advises Parliament on how it can be constitutionally passed,” he said, adding that the parliamentary debate would be held on October 8, with a vote at its conclusion.
