By: Isuru Parakrama

October 31, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya openly challenged former President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s understanding of the Constitution, questioning whether she should be learning from a leader who, despite repeated public rejection, remains entrenched in politics.

Speaking at a recent public event, PM Amarasuriya emphasised that Wickremesinghe’s multiple electoral defeats—17 losses to date—have not deterred him from pursuing a political role, despite the evident shift in public sentiment.

“Wickremesinghe seems to struggle with understanding the evolving will of the people,” Amarasuriya stated, adding that her administration is paving the way for a new approach to governance.

She stressed that the people’s mandate lies at the core of the Constitution, expressing doubts about Wickremesinghe’s grasp of this fundamental principle.

Pointing out that a genuine understanding of constitutional basics involves respecting democratic processes, PM Amarasuriya argued that a true leader would not interfere with electoral timelines or compromise the authority of institutions such as the National Council or judiciary.

“A person with constitutional knowledge would avoid these actions. Perhaps he needs a clearer grasp of these essentials before advising others on the Constitution,” she remarked.

Further, PM Amarasuriya critiqued Sri Lanka’s longstanding political culture, which she claims has been marred by leaders acting with unwarranted authority.

According to her, the government led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake is committed to dismantling this approach, prioritising transparency and accountability in its place.

The Prime Minister also responded to Wickremesinghe’s recent assertion that Cabinet decisions need no departmental approval, stating, “That may have been his style, but our administration makes decisions that reflect the needs of the people and consider the guidance of relevant officials.”

She underlined that the new government prioritises public welfare and sound, informed decision-making.

The comments follow a recent clash between Wickremesinghe and Amarasuriya regarding procedural integrity in government decisions.

Amarasuriya had previously criticised the former government’s handling of public servants’ salary increases, alleging procedural lapses. Wickremesinghe, in response, suggested that the Prime Minister could benefit from further constitutional guidance.