CBK's authority in SLFP questioned

COLOMBO (News1st); President's Counsel Maithri Gunaratne, representing former President Maithripala Sirisena, argued that former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga is not a member of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and, therefore, lacks the authority to intervene in the party's internal affairs or file a court case.

Gunaratne presented these objections in a written statement before Colombo Chief District Judge Sandun Withana. He made these arguments during a hearing concerning the injunction that prevents Sirisena from holding the position of SLFP Chairman.

The President's Counsel highlighted that Kumaratunga's petition was based on the party constitution adopted in 2022, which is currently suspended by both the court and the election commissioner. He asserted that as a non-member, Kumaratunga has no right to interfere in the party's matters and suggested that her petition should be dismissed.

After reviewing the arguments, Judge Withana extended the injunction preventing Maithripala Sirisena from assuming the role of SLFP Chairman until June 19. He also instructed the petitioners to submit objections on behalf of the respondents.

Additionally, the injunction preventing the removal of SLFP Senior Vice President Mahinda Amaraweera, Treasurer Lasantha Alagiyawanna, and National Organizer Duminda Dissanayake from their positions has been extended until July 30. Judge Withana granted this extension to allow time for the respondents to file objections to the petition.