Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has criticised the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, alleging that it would weaken Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions and undermine the independence of the Judiciary.

Speaking at a fundraising event in Wattala aimed at constructing houses for 100 families affected by Cyclone Ditwah, Premadasa alleged that the Government was seeking to weaken the three main pillars of democracy – the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary – through the proposed Amendment.

He alleged that the Government was attempting to undermine the independence of the Judiciary and turn it into a “servant” of the Executive, while paving the way for a one-party authoritarian system.

Premadasa said such a move towards authoritarian rule must be defeated to safeguard the political and social freedoms of Sri Lanka’s 22 million people.

Drawing parallels between the proposed constitutional changes and the devastation caused by Ditwah, he described the proposed 22nd Amendment as a major threat to democracy.

Meanwhile, Premadasa also called for a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s disaster management mechanism, which he said had become outdated.

He stressed the need for a new programme to minimise the potential impact of disasters on key sectors, including hydropower generation.

According to Premadasa, lessons from past disasters, including the tsunami and Ditwah, should be incorporated into national disaster preparedness plans.

He said implementing measures before disasters occur should be among the key responsibilities of the President and the Government, rather than relying primarily on responses after disasters strike.

The Opposition Leader made the remarks while highlighting the need to support families affected by Ditwah, with the Wattala event organised to raise funds for the construction of houses for 100 affected families.