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Commonwealth urges Sri Lanka to resolve crisis

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland has called on Sri Lanka to resolve the crisis in the country and reconvene parliament. 

In a statement, the Commonwealth said Scotland had "noted the decision by President Sirisena to reconvene Parliament on 14 November 2018. Secretary-General Scotland emphasized the importance of the role of Parliament as provided for under the constitution and expressed hope that Parliament would meet as soon as possible to resolve the current crisis in the country."

Sri Lanka plunged into political crisis last month following the sacking of the prime minister by the president, and appointing of the war crimes accused former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new premier. 

"The Secretary-General referred to the Commonwealth Charter, adopted in 2012 by all the Commonwealth member states which specifically refers to the responsibility of governments, political parties and civil society to uphold and promote democratic culture and practices," the Commonwealth added."

"The Secretary-General encouraged the political leaders and people of Sri Lanka to engage in constructive dialogue and ensure that the country's constitution and the rule of law is upheld. The Commonwealth remains ready to assist and will collaborate with other international partners to provide support if required by the Government and people of Sri Lanka."

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