Sri Lanka's Parliamentary Select Committee has appointed an expert panel to evaluate 31 electoral reform proposals and previous parliamentary recommendations, with a focus on modernizing the country's election systems.
A Parliamentary Select Committee tasked with reviewing Sri Lanka's election laws has established an expert panel to examine proposed reforms and submit recommendations to Parliament. The decision was made during a recent meeting chaired by Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Prof. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna. The committee's mandate covers election laws excluding those governing Provincial Council elections.
The expert panel will analyse 31 reform proposals submitted by individuals and organisations, alongside reports from previous Parliamentary Select Committees on electoral reforms dating back to 2004, 2007, and 2022. Key proposals under consideration include introducing a mixed electoral system for Local Government elections, ensuring representation for minority parties and communities, increasing women's participation in electoral processes, implementing electronic voting systems, and facilitating early voting options.
Another significant proposal involves extending voting rights to Sri Lankan citizens residing overseas. However, the committee acknowledged that additional legal and administrative study is necessary before implementing such measures. The expert panel is expected to assess the feasibility of each proposal and provide practical recommendations for potential adoption.
Once the expert panel completes its analysis and submits findings, the Parliamentary Select Committee will review the recommendations before determining subsequent action. The meeting included participation from Committee Member Dr. Upali Pannilage and Members of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake, Ruwanthilaka Jayakody, and Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan.
