Speculations are raised on whether President Ranil Wickremesinghe is once again on the search for a two thirds majority in Parliament.

That is mainly due to media disclosures of recent pro-government discussions held to explore the possibility of holding a referendum in July.

Meanwhile, ‘Ada Derana’ has reported that two rounds of discussions were held at a well known hotel in the Battaramulla area.

During the discussion, legal experts have been asked whether the current government can proceed in the same way that former President J. R. Jayawardena held a referendum to extend the term of Parliament.

Reports also state that discussions have taken place on alternative action if the courts oppose this move.

Legal experts have been of the view that a referendum could only be held on two occasions. 

One would be an instance of national importance that the President could present to the voting public.

The other would be through the Supreme Court accepting the fact that a relevant Act was passed by a two thirds majority in parliament.

Accordingly, it is said that more attention is given to the MPs’ request seeking duty free vehicle permits, in a bid to secure the two thirds majority.

Thus, providing duty free permits for the 79 first-time parliamentarians, would be given priority, reports say.