Expert panel appointed to review electoral reform proposals

A Parliamentary Select Committee in Sri Lanka has appointed an expert panel to review and assess proposals for electoral reforms submitted by various individuals and organisations. The Committee, chaired by Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Prof. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna, is mandated to examine laws related to elections, excluding those governing Provincial Council elections, and submit proposals and recommendations to Parliament.

During a recent meeting, members discussed 31 proposals submitted for electoral reforms, as well as reports from previous Parliamentary Select Committees appointed in 2004, 2007, and 2022. Key proposals considered include the introduction of a mixed electoral system for Local Government elections, measures to ensure representation of minority parties and groups, increasing women’s representation, implementing electronic voting, providing facilities for early voting, and granting voting rights to Sri Lankans living overseas.

The Committee acknowledged the need for further examination of the legal and administrative requirements for implementing such reforms. The appointed expert panel will review the proposals, previous Committee reports, and prepare a report with practical recommendations, which the Select Committee will consider before deciding on further action.

Brief written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.