Govt. calls for public opinion on electoral reforms

The government is calling for proposals from the public on several electoral reforms including the increased participation of women and youth, providing postal voting facilities for the private sector and the introduction of electronic voting. 

The Presidential Commission of Inquiry to Make Recommendations for Election Reforms has sought opinions/ proposals from the public on election reforms. Written proposals/opinions are sought not only from the public but also from political parties, organizations as well and other interested parties.

Proposals are invited for increasing the participation of women and youth, reducing the period between the time of declaration, of an election and the release of results after such election, providing opportunity for electronic voting, providing facilities for Sri Lankans living overseas to vote at elections, enabling a person to contest elections for both Provincial Council and Parliament and represent both if elected, providing opportunity for postal voting for voters serving in public corporations, state owned enterprises and private sector who are engaged in election related services on election day, not limiting the propotional representation, propose an appropriate mixed election system reflecting the pluralistic nature of the society, strengthening the multi-party system, reducing the role of money in politics are prevention of policy capture, leadership's accountability to political party members and the role of political parties in strengthening national unity, the Commission said. 

Opinions are also sought on how political parties and independent groups should use the media, how they should conduct themselves in carrying out public affairs, registering political parties and acting in a manner that is credible and accountable to the public. 

Opinions and proposals should be submitted via post or email to the Secretary of the COI before December 15.