Ranjan’s writ application to save his seat will be called on March 31

By Chitra Weerarathne

 The Application for a Writ of Mandamus filed by Ranjan Ramanayake, in the Court of Appeal, will be next called on March 31.

It was called before the Court, yesterday, and all parties said that written submissions had been filed on schedule.

SJB MP Ramanayake was convicted by the Supreme Court for contempt. He was sentenced to four years rigorous imprisonment.

Ramanayake filed a Writ in the Court of Appeal, seeking a Mandatory Order on the Secretary General of Parliament, restraining the latter from informing the Commissioner of Elections that he had vacated his seat in Parliament, consequent to the conviction for contempt.

The Court of Appeal has said that the status will remain as at now until the next date of calling of the civil petition.

Faiz Mustapaha, President’s Counsel, appeared with M.A. Sumanthiran PC, Suren Fernando PC and Keerthi Tillekeratne for Ramanayake.

 Indika Demuni de Silva Additional Solicitor General, PC, appeared with Nerin Pulle, Senior Deputy Solicitor General and Dr. Avanthi Perera, Senior State Counsel for the respondents, the Secretary General of Parliament, and the Commissioner of Elections.

The bench comprised Justice Arjuna Obeysekera (President).