Satyagraha called off on presidential assurance

The National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) said the Satyagraha which was to be held at Independence Square yesterday was called off following an assurance given by President Maithripala Sirisena that the 19th Amendment to the Constitution would be enacted.

The satyagraha, which was to be held after the protest march organised by the Collective of Citizens' Organisations, urged all MPs to support the enactment of the 19th Amendment.

NMSJ Leader Ven. Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera together with several politicians and civil society groups took part in the protest march.

NMSJ Spokesman Ravi Jayawardane said a representative of the President had delivered a message to Ven. Sobitha Thera assuring him of the enactment of the 19th Amendment.

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“The President assured there will be no obstacle to enact the Amendment and requested the Satyagraha be called off considering the health condition of Ven. Sobitha Thera. This resulted in the Satyagraha being called off and we held a symbolical Satyagraha near the Polduwa Bridge at Battaramulla before dispersing,” he said.

Mr. Jayawardene said they were optimistic about the assurance given and would decide on fresh move in the future depending on the status of the Amendment.