UNP files petition challenging Special GST Bill constitutionality

The United National Party (UNP) has challenged the constitutionality of the proposed Special Goods and Services Tax (GST) bill in the Supreme Court on the grounds that it impinges on the rights of Parliament and its control over public finances.

The Petitioners are UNP Youth Front and Working Committee Member Chairman Shehara Herath and UNP Working Committee Member Dinouk Colombage.

The Petitioners allege that the passage of the Bill has not followed a due and proper process and is brought about for extraneous motives, and some of its provisions are contrary and/or repugnant to the rule of law; and/or in violation of the doctrine of public trust.

The Petitioners state that as several clauses in the Bill are inconsistent with the Constitution, the Supreme Court rule that the Bill can become law if such Bill is passed by a special majority in Parliament and approved by the people at a referendum.