The much awaited debate on the 19th Amendment to the Constitution will begin this morning when the parliament convenes at 9.30am.

The debate, which had been planned for April 21 and 22, had to be postponed due to the vehement protests by the opposition. Sri Lanka Freedom Party offered the strongest protest againt the 19th Amendment, arguing that it should be introduced with the 20th Amendment to change the electoral system.

Following prolonged discussions involving President Maithripala Sirisena, SLFP agreed to support 19th Amendment, pending the introduction of the 20th Amendment.

The debate on the 19th Amendment will take place on Tuesday (28) evening.