Minister Kabir Hashim, General Secretary of the United National Party claims that, following the 19th constitutional amendment, a democratically elected government cannot be overthrow until the next election.

This was in response to a statement made by former President Mahinda Rajapakshe claiming that he will work towards defeating the incubent government in 2017.

It will not deter the government’s focus on empowering the people he added.

Minister Hashim expressed that the former President had been making such claims since the defeat at the last Presidential Election.

Minister pointed out that during Mahinda Rajapaksa’s 10 year reign, he only strengthened his position through constitutional amendments.

Hashim further said through the 18th amendment Mahinda Rajapakshe took away the powers of the people and a very selected group was enriched during Rajapaksa’s term.

Minister Hashim stessed that, threats made by Mahinda Rajapakshe will not affect the present administration.