It is not possible to hold a Parliamentary Election constitutionally before March next year, the Elections Commission said.

Its Chairman and lawyer Nimal G. Punchihewa said Parliament can only be dissolved two and a half years after the first parliamentary session has been held.

Speaking at a ceremony held in Kegalle, Mr. Punchiheva said Parliament must be dissolved if a general election is to be held.

“Only the President can dissolve Parliament. However, not even the President has the power to dissolve Parliament until March next year according to our Constitution. Parliament cannot be dissolved for two and a half years. Otherwise, a request must be made to dissolve Parliament with a majority vote. The President has full and absolute discretion whether to accept this request or not. Therefore, we have to think about going for a future General Election within these limitations,” he said.

Mr. Punchiheva also said that it is essential to pass the necessary legal provisions in Parliament to hold the Provincial Councils elections under the old electoral system.

Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya has decided to sign a public petition against the government’s alleged attempts to postpone elections.

MP Tissa Attanayake said the signing of the petition will be commenced in Parliament today.

(Ada Derana)