In the past, the United National Party said it would not support the reform proposals if they are rushed through without a full discussion with the Buddhist clergy. Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country and the Buddhist prelates have considerable influence in the country's politics. The Tamil minority is predominately Hindu. The ruling coalition, which has a thin majority in the Sri Lankan parliament, needs the support of the main opposition and other mainstream parties to get the two-thirds majority needed to pass the reforms. Government officials say President Kumaratunga is likely to push the reforms through the house before the six-year term ends August 24th.
General elections are due after that.
President Kumaratunga came to power in 1994 promising constitutional reforms. Political analysts say her party will be in a strong position if the reforms are approved. If they are defeated she can blame the opposition for ruining her peace efforts.