Holding Provincial Council Elections Under Old System Would Create Administrative Issues – Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stated that conducting Provincial Council elections under the old electoral system would create several administrative challenges and hinder necessary reforms to the country’s political framework.

Speaking during the Prime Minister’s Question Time in Parliament on Wednesday (June 10), she responded to a question raised by New Democratic Front MP Ravi Karunanayake regarding the delay in holding Provincial Council elections.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the electoral system under which the Provincial Council elections should be conducted remains a matter of concern and requires careful consideration before an election is called.

Concerns Over the Old Electoral System

Dr. Amarasuriya noted that holding elections under the previous electoral model would make it difficult to ensure proper constituency-based representation. She also pointed out that adequate representation for women and young people could not be guaranteed under the existing framework.

Furthermore, she said the preferential voting system, which has often been criticized for encouraging corruption and unhealthy political competition, would remain unchanged if elections were held under the old system.

Government Not Afraid of Elections

Rejecting suggestions that the government is reluctant to face elections, the Prime Minister highlighted that two elections had already been conducted over the past one and a half years despite challenging economic conditions.

“We are not afraid of elections. However, democracy cannot be adjusted according to convenience. Elections must be conducted in a manner that addresses existing shortcomings and serves the interests of the people,” she said.

Parliamentary Committee Reviewing Reforms

The Prime Minister stated that a Parliamentary Select Committee is currently examining electoral reforms and preparing recommendations on the most suitable system for Provincial Council elections.

She assured Parliament that once the committee submits its recommendations and final report, the government would proceed with conducting the Provincial Council elections in accordance with the law.

Call for Opposition Support

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed the importance of establishing an electoral system that reflects the needs of the present era and promotes fair representation.

She also called on opposition parties to support the ongoing reform process, stating that electoral reforms are essential to strengthening democratic governance and improving political accountability.

The issue of Provincial Council elections has remained a key political topic in Sri Lanka, with elections being postponed for several years due to disputes over the electoral system and related legal reforms.