At present, there are reportedly 45 ministers and 35 deputies. One cannot be certain of the numbers as the numbers keep increasing overnight. The actual number maybe more even as this letter is being published.

This whole issue has become a cruel joke, both nationally and internationally. It is a very costly joke for Sri Lankans.

Many different reasons have been adduced for this situation. Some feel that the President does not care two hoots for public opinion and is doing this in her arrogance. Others feel that she has become a prisoner among her own MPs who keep on demanding more and more, if they are to extend their support to keep the present unstable government going.

However, it is the duty of other political parties and also the public to put an end to this mockery.

This situation has arisen as the present constitution does not stipulate the number of ministers and deputies that could be appointed. Perhaps, the original framers of the constitution expected the leader of the governing party to act with responsibility in the appointment of ministers and deputies. Present events have proved them wrong.

therefore, it is the duty of opposition MP's to immediately bring forward a private members motion to stipulate in the constitution, the maximum number of ministers and deputies that could be appointed.

The general consensus seems to be that the number should be limited 20 ministers and 20 deputies. These are the numbers promised by the President herself at her election campaign in 1994. Furthermore, these numbers would be reasonable considering the size of our country and its economic situation.

We hope the UNP and the JVP will act in this regard and do the needful in association with other MPs who are so inclined.

Ranjith Perera
Dehiwela