Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education

¶ 01 Government stance on abolishing the Executive Presidency and holding Provincial Councils election:

¶ 02 In line with page 194 of the policy statement “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life,” a new Constitution will be drafted, presented to the public, discussed, amended as necessary and approved via referendum. Work is underway, considering reports of previous committees and constitutional reform efforts. A concept paper will be submitted to Cabinet.

¶ 03 The policy states that the Executive Presidency will be abolished and a parliamentary system established with a non-executive President. Accordingly, during the constitutional reform process, the Executive Presidency will be abolished and a parliamentary system instituted. This requires constitutional change; studies on the approach are underway, with timelines to be announced. Priority is being given while addressing pressing national issues.

¶ 04 The Government intends to conduct Provincial Council elections as soon as possible. Under Section 3(c) of the Provincial Councils Elections (Amendment) Act, No. 17 of 2017, delimitation must be completed by a committee appointed by the President, and its report approved by Parliament. As delimitation is not yet complete, elections cannot be held under the 2017 Act at present. The Government is considering whether to proceed under the 2017 framework after completing delimitation, or to amend that provision and revert to the previous system. A final decision will be taken following study, but elections will be held thereafter. Funds have been allocated in the 2026 Budget for the Provincial Council elections.

¶ 05 Regarding the establishment of a Public Prosecutor’s Office, pursuant to Cabinet decisions dated 07.05.2025 (No. AMP/25/0683/818/044) and 04.08.2025 (No. AMP/25/1279/818/044-1), Cabinet approved appointing a technical expert committee to study the matter, recommend a new law to establish the Office, and identify necessary amendments to existing laws. The committee is at work; following its report, drafting will proceed with the Legal Draftsman and Attorney-General’s clearance before submission to Parliament.