• SJB Deputy National Organiser S.M. Marikkar says the Constitution is above all circulars issued 
• Asks Government Printer to protect the Constitution or prepare to languish in prison 
• Questions Treasury Secretary on how funds were issued for Independence Day celebrations and the upcoming Janaraja Perahera

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Deputy National Organiser S.M. Marikkar says Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana and Government Printer Gangani Liyanage will be the next to face legal action for their attempts to obstruct the upcoming Local Government elections. 

Holding a press conference yesterday, Marikkar highlighted that the Constitution is the supreme law of the country and is above any circular issued by the Ministry. 

“The Parliament, the Cabinet, Ministry Secretaries or Heads of State institutions cannot violate the Constitution,” he noted, adding that circulars do not affect election duties from being carried out. He also noted that the budget has already set aside funds for the Local Government elections and approved by Parliament. “Therefore, the treasury has no legal right to withhold funds,” he said. 

The SJB MP, recalling the fate that befell former Heads of State institutions that carried out illegal orders, called on the Government Printer to protect the Constitution or prepare to languish in prison. “Just as a case was filed against Neil Hapuhinna for issuing incorrect circulars, you both will be next in line,” he said, referring to Siriwardana and Liyanage. 

He also asked how the Treasury issued funds for the Independence Day celebrations and the upcoming Janaraja Perahera if there are no funds in the coffers. 

SJB to hold protest on Monday against bid to put off polls