Expert Panel To Review Proposals On Electoral Reforms

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Parliamentary Special Committee appointed to consider electoral reforms has taken steps to appoint an expert panel to review the proposals received and prepare a report.

This decision was taken when the special committee met in Parliament under the chairmanship of Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, Professor A.H.M.H. Abeyaratne.

During the meeting, the Committee held extensive discussions on electoral reforms based on the Parliamentary Select Committee reports issued in 2004, 2007 and 2022, as well as the 31 proposals submitted by individuals and organisations.

The expert panel will review the proposals received, along with previous parliamentary select committee reports on electoral reforms, and prepare a comprehensive report.

During the discussion, attention was given to several proposals, including the introduction of a mixed electoral system for local government elections, ensuring representation for small parties and minority groups, increasing women’s representation, introducing electronic voting, and providing facilities for early voting.

Proposals to grant voting rights to Sri Lankans living abroad were also considered, with the panel set to further study the legal and administrative provisions required to implement such a system.