Constitution protects unity & Buddhism -Mano

Minister of National Co-existence, Dialogue and Official Languages Mano Ganesan says priority given to Buddhism and unity in the country will not be hindered through the proposed new Constitution.

The Minister said the government has no intention of joining the Northern and the Eastern Provinces.

Addressing a media briefing in Colombo Minister Ganesan noted the Local Government Election will likely be held in the 3rd week of January.

Minister Ganesan said the government is engaged in efforts of formulating a new Constitution adding that various proposals have been submitted.

The Minister noted that however with great responsibility he says that a majority of the proposals are regarding maintaining unity adding that priority has been given to Buddhism in the new Constitution.

Minister Ganesan said the government is expecting to hold the Provincial Council Election under the new Electoral System by the 20th of January, and that that is the intention.

The Minister noted a division will receive a representative and the preferential voting system will be discontinued adding that a division or a seat will receive a representative each.

He said the government will take the best from the proportional system and introduce a mixed electoral system adding that the credit of this should be given to the present government including the President and the Prime Minister.

The Minister Reiterated that Co-existence, peace and reconciliation will not be tarnished under any circumstance.