APRC must be dissolved: Wimal

By Lakna Paranamanna

The National Freedom Front (NFF) claimed yesterday that the devised final set of proposals of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) is unethical and therefore, requested the government to dissolve the group immediately.

*Insists that the
Committee has outlived its mandate
*Advocates the
appointment of a Nation Building Commission

Speaking at a press briefing held in light of the final solution of the APRC, NFF Leader Wimal Weerawansa stated that the committee has no right to suggest political changes within the country as their mandate is no longer relevant. “The APRC was established at a time when the LTTE’s power was strong. It was set up to create a positive foundation for peace talks between the government and the LTTE,” he pointed out. He added since the situation has changed course now and terrorism is defeated, there is no purpose for the committee to operate.
He cited that even though they call themselves the ‘All Party Representative Committee’ (APRC), most of the main political parties have left, including some of the parties included in the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA).
Weerawansa further emphasised the fact, while highlighting a statement by former Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva. “Even if the power authorised to the Local Governments change in minimum proportions, the unity of the country would be challenged. The administration of the country has reached its peak in terms of power devolution,” he said adding that the APRC is attempting to fulfil the wishes of the ‘western powers’ and their proposals will drag the country into unnecessary problems.
“A discussion regarding the required political changes should take place, but not in this sense.” He suggested that the government should establish a committee for nation building instead of the APRC, where necessary political changes could be discussed as a subtopic.
The APRC claimed on Monday that they have formulated the final draft of proposals and the Chairman, Minister Professor Tissa Vitarana is expected to hand over the report to the government soon.
According to the proposals, the unit of devolution would be the Provincial Councils and a land commission would be appointed. However, the authority of ports, air ports and natural resources would be under the central government regardless of their geographical location.