A special meeting was held at Parliament yesterday to chart the future work of the Expert Panel appointed to reform Sri Lanka’s electoral system, excluding Provincial Council elections, with the aim of making it more efficient, transparent, and responsive to public expectations.
The discussion was chaired by the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government A.H.M.H. Abeyaratne, who also heads the Parliamentary Select Committee tasked with reviewing election laws and submitting proposals to Parliament.
Committee members Ruwanthilaka Jayakody, Attorney‑at‑Law Thushari Jayasinghe, and Chandima Hettiarachchi joined the meeting, which focused on the role of the Expert Panel, the scope of matters to be reviewed, and the process for the next stages.
The Panel is expected to conduct an in‑depth review of 31 proposals submitted by citizens and organizations concerning electoral reforms. Relevant studies and research from universities and institutions will also be considered.
The review period has been set at two months, during which the Panel will not only identify shortcomings in the current system but, where necessary, recommend the establishment of a new electoral system and culture with more constructive features.
Officials stated that the ultimate objective is not merely to introduce piecemeal amendments.
Instead, the Committee aims to present Parliament with a comprehensive report containing policy and legislative recommendations for a more credible, democratic, and efficient electoral system suited to current needs and the expectations of the people.
The meeting marked the formal start of the Expert Panel’s work, which is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s electoral future. (Newswire)