SPEAKER CAN TAKE OVER PRESIDENCY: UNP MP VAJIRA ABEYWARDENE

The United National Party(unp) yesterday came out with a fresh argument saying that there are provisions for Speaker Karu Jayasuriya to take over presidency after consulting the Chief Justice if the latter is of the opinion that President is unable to exercise, perform his powers duties and functions of his office. UNP MP Vajira Abeywardene came up with this argument at a media conference last afternoon.

Mr. Abeywardene argued that Speaker could consult Chief Justice and with his approval could take over the Presidency when there is turmoil in the country.

“There is provisions for the Speaker to take over the presidency during a crisis situation in the country and the latter had not exercised this power yet,” he said.

“As per the article 37 (2) of the constitution Speaker could consult the Chief Justice in the event he thinks President is unable to perform his duties temporary and appoint the Prime Minister as the executive president. However Speaker can take over the presidency whenever the Prime Minister’s post is vacant,” he added.

There is provisions for the Speaker to take over the presidency during a crisis situation in the country and the latter had not exercised this power yet