The main opposition SJB on Friday commenced collecting signatures of MPs for a No-Confidence Motion against the Government while a preparation of an impeachment against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was underway.

The JVP said that they would support both the no-confidence motion against the government and the impeachment.

SJB leader Sajith Premadasa told Parliament on Friday that his party is set to submit a No-Confidence Motion against the Government in Parliament soon over the current economic crisis. He added they they were contemplating an impeachment motion against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa if he does not step down.

Premadasa putting forward nine proposals to address the current economic and political crises in Sri Lanka stressed the need to abolish the executive presidency and establish a constitutional democracy with checks and balances, including the appointment of independent commissions.

He said the SJB would not work together with the current president, as it does not have faith in such a government.

“Not only should the President step down, but the executive presidency should be abolished,” he stressed adding that an interim, temporary, or caretaker government cannot function under an executive presidency.

Saying that such a combination would be a betrayal of the nation, he said the SJB would never engage in such political deals which are against the wishes of the public. They would consider engaging in discussion on the future course of action if the discussion is held with a group that does not include a single member from the Rajapaksa family.

If the Government and President do not heed the proposals of the SJB and the calls of the public, then the SJB will be forced to submit an impeachment motion. The President has to “either lead, follow, or get out of the way,” Premadasa said.

JVP MP Vijitha Herath told parliament that his party would support both the no confidence motion against the government and the impeachment against the President.