Former United National Party Deputy Leader and Parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayake says safeguarding democracy is essential for Sri Lanka’s future development.
Speaking to journalists, Karunanayake made the remarks in response to recent statements by several government ministers suggesting that Provincial Council elections are unnecessary and that the ruling National People’s Power (NPP) would remain in power for many years.
He said democracy must be upheld regardless of the political party in power, stressing that the country’s progress depends on preserving democratic institutions and processes.
Karunanayake also recalled Sri Lanka’s political history, referring to the period when former President J. R. Jayewardene held a five-sixths parliamentary majority and made remarks suggesting that democracy was no longer necessary.
He further noted that the current Government, despite securing a two-thirds parliamentary majority, was formed after receiving a relatively small share of the overall electorate, emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic principles and maintaining electoral accountability.
