The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) envisaged between India and Sri Lankais not an agreement but a ploy to fill the island with Indians, charged Jathika Nidahas Peramuna (JNP) leader Wimal Weerawansa.

Addressing the media during a briefing at JNP headquarters in Battaramulla, the Minister of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing & Common Amenities said that the CEPA, if signed, it would adversely affectSri Lanka. The existing agreements allow more import of materials to the island. But CEPA will open the gates for workers too to flood the island.

Even now, Indians who arrive here on tourist visas work in the fields in the north and sometimes leave with the harvests as well, Mr. Weerawansa claimed.

On the proposed constitutional amendments, Minister Weerawansa said that the Prime Minister should be elected by the people. He added that the JNP has already submitted its proposals regarding the amendments.

The clause that one person could hold the office of Presidency only for two terms or six years was drawn up, taking into consideration the age of former President J.R. Jayewardene, who was the architect of the document. Today it is not so relevant, Minister Weerawansa added.