President Ranil Wickremesinghe has issued a gazette notification, establishing a 10-member commission of inquiry led by retired Chief Justice Priyasath Dep. This commission’s primary mandate is to conduct a comprehensive review of current election laws and regulations, undertake investigations and assessments, and subsequently recommend necessary amendments to modernize these laws.
The commission has been given a timeframe of 6 months to complete this thorough process. The appointed members of the commission include notable figures such as Justice Wewage Priyasath Gerard Dep, PC, Suntharam Arumainayaham, Senanayake Alisandaralage, Nalin Jayantha Abeysekara, PC, Rajitha Naveen Christopher Senaratna Perera, Ahamed Lebbe Mohamed Saleem, Ms. Sagarica Delgoda, Ms. Esther Sriyani Nimalka Fernando, Vitharanage Deepani Samantha Rodrigo, and Alan Carmichael Vere David.
The commission’s main focus is on scrutinizing existing election laws and regulations and proposing amendments. Their recommendations will prioritize factors such as enhancing the representation of women and youth, introducing modern electronic voting methods, and enabling Sri Lankans living abroad to vote.
Additionally, the commission will suggest the creation of media standards to guide the responsible use of media by political entities and independent groups. They will also propose a code of conduct for political parties, independent groups, and their members in their political and public activities.
Furthermore, the commission will explore ways to strengthen the laws and regulations governing the registration and operations of political parties to promote transparency and public accountability.