Info
Disclaimer: This section of Comparative Data is not being updated.
Users should be aware that data may be inaccurate. If you find inaccuracies please
contact the ACE facilitators .
Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Delimitation Commission shall divide Sri Lanka into not less than twenty and not more than *[twenty-five] Electoral Districts and shall assign names thereto
Source: Constitution, Art. 96(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
b . The Boundaries Commission
Comments: The Delimitation Commission shall divide Sri Lanka into not less than twenty and not more than *[twenty-five] Electoral Districts and shall assign names thereto
Source: Constitution, Art. 96(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Comments: (2)Each Province of Sri Lanka may itself constitute an electoral district or may be divided into two or more electoral districts.
(3) Where a Province is divided into a number of electoral districts the Delimitation Commission shall have regard to the existing administrative districts so as to ensure as far as is practicable that each electoral district shall be an administrative district or a combination of two or more administrative districts or two or more electoral districts together constitute an administrative district.
Source: Constitution, Art. 96 (2-3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/28
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
d . Boundary Commission
Comments: The Delimitation Commission shall divide Sri Lanka into not less than twenty and not more than *[twenty-five] Electoral Districts and shall assign names thereto
Source: Constitution, Art. 96(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
g . Changes in administrative boundaries
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 96(3).
Verified: 2016/01/28
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government
Comments: There shall be a President of the Republic of Sri Lanka, who is the Head of the State, the Head of the Executive and of the Government, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Source: Constitution, Art. 30: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
f . Other
Comments: The President of the Republic shall be elected by the People, and shall hold office for a term of six years
At the election of the President every voter while casting his vote for any candidate may where there are three candidates for election, specify his second preference and where there are more than three candidates for election, specify his second and third preferences.
The candidate, if any, who receives more than one-half of the valid votes cast shall be declared elected as President. Where no candidate is declared elected, the candidate or candidates, other than the candidates who received the highest and second highest number of such votes, shall be eliminated from the contest, and the second preference of each voter whose vote had been for a candidate eliminated from the contest, shall, if it is for one or the other of the remaining two candidates, be counted as a vote for such candidate and be added to the votes counted in his favour and the third preference of each voter whose second preference is not counted under that sub-paragraph shall, if it is for one or the other of the remaining two candidates, be counted as a vote for such candidate and be added to the votes counted in his favour. The candidate who receives the majority of the votes so counted shall be declared elected as President.
Source: Constitution, Art. 30(2), 94(1-2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 30, 31, 94: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: There shall be a Parliament which shall consist of two hundred and twenty-five Members elected in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution
Source: Constitution, Art. 62: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
g . List Proportional Representation
Comments: Every elector at an election of Members of Parilament shall, in addition to his vote, be entitled to indicate his preferences for not more than three candidates nominated by the same recognized political party or independent group
Every recognized political party and independent group polling **[less than one twentieth of the total votes] polled at any election in any electoral district shall be disqualified from having any candidates of such party or group being elected for that electoral district.
The votes polled by the disqualified parties and independent groups, if any, shall be deducted from the total votes polled at the election in that electoral district and the number of votes resulting from such deduction is hereinafter referred to as the “relevant numbers of votes.”
(7) The relevant number of votes shall be divided by the number of members to be elected for that electoral district reduced by one, if the number resulting from such division is an integer, that integer, or if that number is an integer and fraction, the integer immediately higher to that integer and fraction is hereinafter referred to as the “resulting number.”
The number of votes polled by each recognized political party and independent group (other than those parties or groups disqualified under paragraph (6) of this Article) beginning with the party or group which polled the highest number of votes shall then be divided by the resulting number and the returning officer shall declare elected from each such party or group, in accordance with the preferences secured by each of the candidates nominated by such party or group (the candidate securing the highest number of preferences being declared elected first, the candidate securing the next highest number of preferences being declared elected next and so on) such number of candidates (excluding the candidate declared elected under paragraph (5) of this Article) as is equivalent to the whole number resulting from the division by the resulting number of the votes polled by such party or group
Source: Constitution, Art. 99(2, 6-8): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
e . Hare
Comments: The seat allocation in multi-member constitutencies and in the 29 national seats are done according to Hare quota and largest remainder.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, p. 703.
Verified: 2004/10/08
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: The electoral districts of each Province shall together be entitled to return four members, (independently of the number of members which they are entitled to return by reference to the number of electors whose names appear in the registers of electors of such electoral districts) and the Delimitation Commission shall apportion such entitlement equitably among such electoral districts
Source: Constitution 1978, article 96(4): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1); http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
b . Specify the percentage:
Comments: Every recognized political party and independent group polling **[less than one twentieth of the total votes] polled at any election in any electoral district shall be disqualified from having any candidates of such party or group being elected for that electoral district
Source: Constitution 1978, article 99(6)(a): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: There is no provision in the constitution specifying minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate to win a seat in chamber 1.
Source: Constitution 1978: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Unless Parliament is sooner dissolved, every Parliament shall continue for six years from the date appointed for its first meeting and no longer and the expiry of the said period of six years shall operate as a dissolution of Parliament.
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Department of Elections, www.slelections.gov.lk
Verified: 2016/01/28
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 62(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/28
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Amended September 2010
Source: Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections b . Regional elections c . Local elections d . Referendums e . Other
Comments:
Source: Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: a) There is no provision in the Constitution or in the Electoral Law specifying that voting at national level is compulsory.
Source: Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: a.) It is a practice, but it is not legally prohibited.
Source: P.M. Siriwardane, Deputy Commissioner of Election, telephone +94 11 286 8447.
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments: a.) It is a practice, but it is not legally prohibited.
Source: P.M. Siriwardane, Deputy Commissioner of Election, telephone +94 11 286 8447.
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary b . EMB
Comments: The Court of Appeal shall have and exercise jurisdiction to try election petitions in respect of the election to the membership of Parliament.
The hearing and determination of a proceeding relating to the election of the President shall be by at least five Judges of the Supreme Court of whom, unless he otherwise directs, the Chief Justiceshall be one.
Source: Constitution, Art. 144: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981, Art. 92: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 144: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981, Art. 92: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates e . Other
Comments: An election petition may be presented to the SUpreme Court by any one or more of the following persons, namely
(A) a person who was a candidate at an election under the Act and claims to have had a right to be returned or election at such election;
(B) any person who signed the nomination paper or papers of any candidate referred to in paragraph (a)
Source: The Parliamentary Elections Act 1981, Art. 93: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Supreme Court shall have the power to hear and determine and make such orders as provided for by law on –
(a) anylegalproceedingrelatingto**[electionofthePresidentor the validity of a referendum];
(b) anyappealfromanorderorjudgementoftheCourtofAppeal in an election petition case
Source: Constitution 1978, art. 130: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978.
Verified: 2016/02/04
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: The Commission shall exercise, perform and discharge all such powers, duties and functions conferred or imposed on or assigned to –
(a) theCommission;or
(b) theCommissioner-GeneralofElections,
by the Constitution, and by the law for the time being relating to the election of the President, the election of Members of Parliament, the election of members of Provincial Councils, the election of members of Local Authorities and the conduct of Referenda, including but not limited to all the powers, duties and functions relating to the preparation and revision of registers of electors for the purposes of such elections and Referenda and the conduct of such elections and Referenda.
Source: Constitution, Art. 104B (1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Commission shall be responsible and answerable to Parliament in accordance with the provisions of the Standing Orders of Parliament for the exercise, performance and discharge of its powers, duties and functions and shall forward to Parliament for each calendar year a report of its activities for such year.
Source: Constitution 1978, art. 104B(3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Commission shall be responsible and answerable to Parliament for the exercise, performance and discharge of its powers, duties and functions and shall forward to Parliament for each calendar year a report of its activities for such year.
Source: Constitution, Art. 104B (3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Commission shall be responsible and answerable to Parliament for the exercise, performance and discharge of its powers, duties and functions and shall forward to Parliament for each calendar year a report of its activities for such year.
Source: Constitution, Art. 104B (3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: A member of the Commission shall hold office for a period of five years from the date of appointment.
Source: Constitution, Art. 103 (6): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
d . Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments: The Election Commission will consist of five members appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council, from amongst persons who have distinguished themselves in any profession or in fields of administration or education. The President shall on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council appoint one member as chairman.
Source: Constitution 1978, article 103(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: The Commission shall be responsible and answerable to Parliament. All members of the Commission shall be deemed to be public servants.
Source: Constitution, Art. 104B (3), 103 (9): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The Election Commission consists of 5 members.
Source: Constitution, Art. 103 (1), 104, 104E: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The members of the Electoral Commission are selected from amongst persons who have distinguished themselves in any profession or in the fields of administration or education.
Source: Constitution, Art. 103 (1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government f . Judiciary
Comments: The members of the Electoral Commission are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council.
Source: Constitution, Art. 103 (1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body d . National Government f . Local Governments g . NGOs/ Civic Organizations i . Media
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/index.html (2012);
Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on Sri Lanka Presidential Election of 26 January 2010: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/220094/FileName/FINALREPORT-CET2010PrintVersion.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/04
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/index.html (2012);
Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on Sri Lanka Presidential Election of 26 January 2010: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/220094/FileName/FINALREPORT-CET2010PrintVersion.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/04
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
h . Yes, conducted by NGOs/ Civic Organizations i . Yes, conducted by Political Parties/ Candidates
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/index.html (2012);
Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on Sri Lanka Presidential Election of 26 January 2010: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/220094/FileName/FINALREPORT-CET2010PrintVersion.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/04
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement e . Public meetings g . Internet h . Other
Comments: Candidates and their activists mainly focused on small-scale meetings with voters, the distribution and display of campaign materials and door-to-door canvassing.
Political parties represented in the previous parliament organised a high number of rallies across the country.
All state outlets provided a platform for various political parties in a wide range of newspaper articles, news programmes, debates and talk shows.
Much political discussion took place on internet fora.
Source: Final Report of the EUs Election Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement f . Mail-outs g . Internet h . Handouts (printed material)
Comments: A voter information campaign was conducted by the Commissioner’s office mainly through the media, social media and public notices. The voter information campaign focused on the date of elections and polling hours and how to correctly mark the ballot. An additional form of voter information was the distribution by post of the polling card that included the polling station’s location together with a list of candidates running for each political party/independent group in the district.
Source: Final Report of the EUs Election Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The conduct of voter education/ information was not systematic and it was also shown to be inefficient.
Source: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: The franchise shall be exercisable at the election of the President of the Republic and of the Members of Parliament and at every Referendum by every citizen who has attained the age of eighteen years
Source: Constitution, Art. 4 (e): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship
Comments: No person shall be qualified to be an elector at an election of the President, or of the Members of Parliament or to vote at any Referendum, if he is subject to any of the following disqualifications, namely –
(a) if he is not a citizen of SriLanka;
(b) if he has not attained the age of eighteen years on the qualifying date specified by law under the provisions of Article 101
Source: Constitution, Art. 89: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration c . Detention d . Mental disability
Comments: (c) if he is under any law in force in Sri Lanka found or declared to be of unsound mind ;
(d) if he is serving or has during the period of seven years immediately preceding completed serving of a sentence of imprisonment (by whatever name called) for a term not less than six months imposed after conviction by any court for an offence punishable with imprisonment for a term not less than two years or is under sentence of death or is serving or has during the period of seven years immediately preceding completed the serving of a sentence of imprisonment for a term not less than six months awarded in lieu of execution of such sentence :
Provided that if any person disqualified under this paragraph is granted a free pardon such disqualification shall cease from the date on which the pardon is granted ;
(e) ifaperiodofsevenyearshasnotelapsedsince–
(i) the last of the dates, if any, of his being convicted of any offence under section 52(1) or 53 of the Ceylon (Parliamentary Elections) Order in Council, 1946, or of such offence under the law for the time being relating to Referenda or to the election of the President or of Members of Parliament as would correspond to an offence under either of the said two sections ;
the last of the dates, if any, of his being convicted of a corrupt practice under the Ceylon (Parliamentary Elections) Order in Council, 1946, or of such offence under the law for the time being relating to Referenda or to the election of the President or of Members of Parliament as would correspond to the said corrupt practice ;
the last of the dates, if any, being a date after the commencement of the constitution, of a report made by a Judge finding him guilty of any corrupt practice under the Ceylon (Parliamentary Elections) Order in Council, 1946, or under any law for the time being relating to Referenda or to the election of the President or of Members of Parliament ;
thelastofthedates,ifany,ofhisbeingconvictedorfound guilty of bribery under the provisions of the Bribery Act or of any future law as would correspond to the Bribery Act ;
if a period of five years has not elapsed since –
if a period of three years has not elapsed since –
(i) the last of the dates, if any, of his being convicted of an illegal practice under the Ceylon (Parliamentary Elections) Order in Council, 1946, or of such offence under the law for
(i)
(ii)
the last of the dates, if any, of his being convicted of any offence under the provisions of sections 77 to 82 (both inclusive) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance or for such offence under any future law as would correspond to any offence under the said sections ; or
the last of the dates, if any, of his being convicted of an offence under the provisions of sections 2 and 3 of the Public Bodies (Prevention of Corruption) Ordinance or of such offence under any future law as would correspond to the said offence ;
Source: Constitution 1978, article 89(c-e): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Commission shall exercise, perform and discharge all such powers, duties and functions conferred or imposed on or assigned to –
(a) theCommission;or
(b) theCommissioner-GeneralofElections,
by the Constitution, and by the law for the time being relating to the election of the President, the election of Members of Parliament, the election of members of Provincial Councils, the election of members of Local Authorities and the conduct of Referenda, including but not limited to all the powers, duties and functions relating to the preparation and revision of registers of electors for the purposes of such elections and Referenda and the conduct of such elections and Referenda.
Source: Constitution, art. 104B(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments: The Commission shall exercise, perform and discharge all such powers, duties and functions conferred or imposed on or assigned to –
(a) theCommission;or
(b) theCommissioner-GeneralofElections,
by the Constitution, and by the law for the time being relating to the election of the President, the election of Members of Parliament, the election of members of Provincial Councils, the election of members of Local Authorities and the conduct of Referenda, including but not limited to all the powers, duties and functions relating to the preparation and revision of registers of electors for the purposes of such elections and Referenda and the conduct of such elections and Referenda.
Source: Constitution, art. 104B(1): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
b . Annually
Comments: Sri Lanka has an active voter registration system.11 The revision of the voter register begins annually on 1 June.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
f . Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments: The Commissioner of Elections appoints an Assistant Commissioner to direct and control the revision of the voter register in each electoral district and the District Secretaries of the respective electoral districts as Registering Officers. The Registering Officer appoints enumerators to visit houses to compile voters’ names.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: No provision in Constitution for compulsory voter registration
Source: Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify amount)
Comments: After the proclamation of the elections, every recognized political party intending to contest an election shall, within seven days, notify the Commissioner of its intention to so contest in writing and the Commissioner should assign an approved symbol for such political party. A group leader of an independent group has to make a deposit of a sum of Rupees 2000/= at the time of submitting the nomination paper and this deposit is forfeiter if the independent group does not poll more than 1\8 th of the total polled at the particular election.
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.lk/about_us/nomination_requirements.jsp (2012);
Parliament Elections Act of 1981, Art. 11, 16
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978.
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence
Comments: a) 18 years;
d) Ordinary residence at the relevant address on the operative date, and the name entered in the appropriate register of electors.
Source: Constitution, Art. 88, 89, 90, 91: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence
Comments: Every person who is qualified to be an elector shall be qualified to be elected to the office of President unless he is subject to any of the following disqualifications –
(a) ifhehasnotattainedtheageofthirtyyears;
(b) ifheisnotqualifiedtobeelectedasaMemberofParliament under sub-paragraph (d), (e), (f) or (g) of paragraph (1) of Article 91
Source: Constitution 1978, art. 91 & 92: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
b . Detention f . Holding of military office g . Holding of government office h . Bankruptcy or Insolvency k . Mental health problems n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.) o . Other
Comments: o.) must not stand nominated as a candidate for election for more than one electoral district, and not by more than one political party or independent group.
Source: Constitution 1978, article 91: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
f . Holding of military office g . Holding of government office h . Bankruptcy or insolvency n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1978, article 92: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: Any recognized political party or any group of persons contesting as independent candidates...
Source: Constitution, Art. 99 (3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: b.) A group leader or any person authorized by such group leader, shall, between the date of publication of the Proclamation or Order requiring the holding of an election and the submission of the nomination paper of that group, deposit in legal tender with the returning officer a sum calculated at two thousand rupees in respect of each candidate nominated by such group.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), Section 16
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1978: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: A candidate or some person on his/her behalf shall deposit, or cause to be deposited with the Commissioner or with any person authorized by the commissioner in that behalf:
- where such candidate is a candidate nominated by any other political party, a sum of 50 000 rupees in legal tender,
- where such candidate is a candidate nominated by any other political party or by an elector, a sum of 75 000 rupees in legal tender.
Source: Presidential Elections Act (No.15 1981), section 8(1): https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: The law provides for state financial assistance to registered political parties that have polled at least one per cent of the valid votes in an electoral district in the previous elections.
The election law provides for two of the state broadcasters to allocate airtime to political parties. The time-slots outlined are 30, 60 and 90 minutes over the campaign period, depending on the party's number of candidates
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
a . As related to the election period only
Comments: The law provides for state financial assistance to registered political parties that have polled at least one per cent of the valid votes in an electoral district in the previous elections.
The election law provides for two of the state broadcasters to allocate airtime to political parties. The time-slots outlined are 30, 60 and 90 minutes over the campaign period, depending on the party's number of candidates
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access
Comments: Every recognized party or independent group which has submitted a nomination paper in respect of any electoral district shall, subject to such conditions as may be determined by the Chairman of the Sri Lankan Broadcasting Corporation and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation be entitled, upon application made in that behalf within one week from the last date of the nomination period, to the use of broadcasting facilities during the election period.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), section 126.
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
a . Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance b . Based on result of previous election
Comments: a) Applies to free broadcast time;
b) The grant shall be paid to any recognized political party in respect of an electoral district, if the party;
- has polled not less than one percent of the total number of valid votes at the previous General Elections; and
- has submitted a nomination paper in respect of that district at the General Eleciton in respect of which such grant is payable.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), Art. 127(3), 126
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
c . Unspecified
Comments: No regulation in this regard.
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981)
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: Party and campaign finance are not regulated. The laws establish no limits on contributions or spending, and there are no disclosure requirements.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: Party and campaign finance are not regulated. The laws establish no limits on contributions or spending, and there are no disclosure requirements.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: Party and campaign finance are not regulated. The laws establish no limits on contributions or spending, and there are no disclosure requirements.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Party and campaign finance are not regulated. The laws establish no limits on contributions or spending, and there are no disclosure requirements.
Source: Final Report of the EU Observation Mission to Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections
Verified: 2016/02/04
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) f . Same ballot papers used nationwide i . Party symbols in black and white m . Organized alphabetically q . Multilingual
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), section 32.
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1978: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
f . Same ballot papers used nation-wide i . Party symbols in black or white m . Organized alphabetically q . Multilingual
Comments:
Source: Presidential Elections Act (No.15 1981): https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
c . Special counting centres
Comments: Counting was conducted in a transparent, well-organised and fast manner in the counting centres/stations observed by EU EOM observers in the presence of representatives of political parties and independent groups and domestic observers.
Source: EU Observers Final Report on the Sri Lanka 17 August 2015 Parliamentary elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand t . Other
Comments: The process of counting votes could be classified into three stages. Stage 1 consists of counting the number of ballot papers in each box. Stage 2 consists of sorting and counting the ballot papers according to the valid votes received and the preparation of the statement of votes received by each party and group in the Electoral District. Stage 3 consists of recording the preferences received by each candidate in the tally sheet and transferring them through a series of summary sheets into a district list for a party or a group, which gives the total number of preferences received by each party in the electoral district.
Source: Department of Elections, www.slelections.gov.lk
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
d . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: d.) Electoral District
On receipt of the statement of preferences from each of the counting centers of the electoral district, the Returning Officer prepares the Final Statement of preferences of each candidate in the electoral district.
Source: Department of Elections, www.slelections.gov.lk
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: The Delimitation Commission shall divide Sri Lanka into not less than twenty and not more than *[twenty-five] Electoral Districts and shall assign names thereto.
The several electoral districts shall together be entitled to return one hundred and ninety-six members.
The electoral districts of each Province shall together be entitled to return four members, (independently of the number of members which they are entitled to return by reference to the number of electors whose names appear in the registers of electors of such electoral districts) and the Delimitation Commission shall apportion such entitlement equitably among such electoral districts.
Source: Constitution, article 96(1&4) and 98(1&3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request
Comments: A recount shall be made upon the application of a counting agent. The number of recounts should not exceed two.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (No.1 1981), Art. 53 (8)
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (No.1 1981), Art. 53 (8)
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
c . Election officials
Comments: A recount shall be made upon the application of a counting agent.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (No.1 1981), section 53(8).
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body i . Other
Comments: a.) Same Counting Officers as those who did the first count.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (no.1 1981), section 53(8).
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no legal provisions, however postal votes are generally announced before the final result of each district.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (No.1 1981), section 60.
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Announcement of the results is done by the Commissioner of Elections through radio and television.
Source: Department of Elections, www.slelections.gov.lk
Verified: 2016/02/09
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
g . Other (specify)
Comments: In the allocation of broadcasting time to any recognized political party or independent group which makes an application in that behalf, the Director-General of Broadcasting shall ensure that each party or group shall be permitted to use
(a) in the case of radio broadcasting, a total period not exceeding forty-five minutes which may be used on one occasion or on not more than three occasions and each such occasion shall not exceed fifteen minutes ;
(b) in the case of television broadcasting, a total period not exceeding forty-five minutes which may be used on one occasion or on not more than three occasions and each such occasion shall not exceed fifteen minutes.
The order in which each recognized political party or independent group shall use the broadcasting facilities shall be determined
(a) in the first instance by agreement among such parties and groups ; or
(b) in the absence of such agreement by lots cast or drawn in such manner as the Director-General of Broadcasting may, in his absolute discretion, determine
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), Art. 126
Verified: 2012/06/14
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments: Where two or more recognized political parties or independent groups agree to debate any matter of national importance, it shall be the duty of the Director-General of Broadcasting to afford broadcasting facilities to such parties or groups, so however that the time permitted for such de bate shall not exceed the time allotted to each such party or group.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), Art. 126 (3);
Commonwealth election observer group: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/shared_asp_files/uploadedfiles/AC871F4B-5A17-4A57-AA39-31045BD21C61_SRILANKAPRESIDENTIALELECTION17NOVEMBER2005-REPORTOFTHECOMMONWEALTHEXPERTTEAM.pdf
Verified: 2012/06/14
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments: The Commonwealth election observation team noted the extensive publication of opinion surveys during the campaign, and indeed on polling day itself.
Source: Commonwealth election observer group:
http://www.thecommonwealth.org/shared_asp_files/uploadedfiles/AC871F4B-5A17-4A57-AA39-31045BD21C61_SRILANKAPRESIDENTIALELECTION17NOVEMBER2005-REPORTOFTHECOMMONWEALTHEXPERTTEAM.pdf
Verified: 2012/06/14
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no limitation.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (No.1 1981)
Verified: 2012/06/14
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 83, 85, 86: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 83, 85: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The President may submit to the People by Referendum any matter which in the opinion of the President is of national importance.
Source: Constitution, Art. 86: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/ep.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/ep.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
Official Website of the Department of Elections: http://www.slelections.gov.lk/ep.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional b . Specific laws/legislation d . Other
Comments: aBillfortheamendmentorfortherepealandreplacementofor which is inconsistent with any of the provisions of Articles 1, 2,3,6,7,8,9,10and11orofthisArticle;and
(b) a Bill for the amendment or for the repeal and replacement of or which is inconsistent with the provisions of paragraph (2) of Article 30 or of, paragraph (2) of Article 62 which would extend the term of office of the President, or the duration of Parliament, as the case may be, to over six years,
shall become law if the number of votes cast in favour thereof amounts to not less than two-thirds of the whole number of Members (including those not present), is approved by the People at a Referendum and a certificate is endorsed thereon by the President in accordance with Article 80.
The President shall submit to the People by Referendum every Bill or any provision in any Bill which the Cabinet of Ministers has certified as being intended to be submitted to the People by Referendum, or which the Supreme Court has determined as requiring the approval of the People at a Referendum if the number of votes cast in favour of such Bill amounts to not less than two-thirds of the whole number of Members (including those not present).
Source: Constitution, art. 83, 85: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: (2) The President may in his discretion submit to the People by Referendum any Bill (not being a Bill for the repeal or amendment of any provision of the Constitution, or for the addition of any provision to the Constitution, or for the repeal and replacement of the Constitution, or which is inconsistent with any provision of the Constitution), which has been rejected by Parliament.
Source: Constitution, art. 85: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: b) The Commissioner of Elections.
C:87 "(1) Every Referendum shall be conducted by the Commissioner of Elections who shall communicate the result thereof to the President. (2) Parliament shall by law provide for all matters relating to the procedure for the submission of Bills and of matters of national importance to the People by Referenda, the register of electors to be used at a Referendum, the creation of offences relating thereto and the punishment therefor, and, all other matters necessary or incidental thereto."
Source: Constitution, art. 87: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) When the Supreme Court or the Cabinet of Ministers has determined that a Bill or any provision thereof requires the approval of a referendum.
C:79 "The Speaker shall endorse on every Bill passed by Parliament a certificate in the following form :- “This Bill (here state the short title of the Bill) has been duly passed by Parliament.” Such certificate may also state the majority by which such Bill was passed : [...] Provided further that where by virtue of Article 83, the Bill or any provision thereof requires the approval of the People at a Referendum, such certificate shall further state that the Bill or such provision shall not become law until approved by the People at a Referendum."
C:80 "(1) Subject to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this Article, a Bill passed by Parliament shall become law when the certificate of the Speaker is endorsed thereon. (2) Where the Cabinet of Ministers has certified that any Bill or any provision thereof is intended to be submitted for approval by the People at a Referendum or where the Supreme Court has determined that a Bill or any provision thereof requires the approval of the People at a Referendum or where any Bill is submitted to the People by Referendum under paragraph (2) of Article 85, such Bill or such provision shall become law upon being approved by the People at a Referendum in accordance with paragraph (3) of Article 85 only when the President certifies that the Bill or provision thereof has been so approved. The President shall endorse on every Bill so approved a certificate in the following form : - “This Bill/provision has been 21[duly approved by the People at a Referendum.” No such certificate shall be endorsed by the President on a Bill – (a) in any case where no petition is filed challenging the validity of the referendum at which such bill was approved by the People, until after the expiration of the period within which a petition may be filed, under the law applicable in that behalf, challenging the validity of such referendum: (b) in any case where a petition is filed challenging the validity of the Referendum at which such Bill was approved by the People, until after the Supreme Court determines that such Referendum was valid.]"
C:85 "(1) The President shall submit to the People by Referendum every Bill or any provision in any Bill which the Cabinet of Ministers has certified as being intended to be submitted to the People by Referendum, or which the Supreme Court has determined as requiring the approval of the People at a Referendum if the number of votes cast in favour of such Bill amounts to not less than two-thirds of the whole number of Members (including those not present). (2) The President may in his discretion submit to the People by Referendum any Bill (not being a Bill for the repeal or amendment of any provision of the Constitution, or for the addition of any provision to the Constitution, or for the repeal and replacement of the Constitution, or which is inconsistent with any provision of the Constitution), which has been rejected by Parliament. (3) Any Bill or any provision in any Bill submitted to the People by Referendum shall be deemed to be approved by the People if approved by an absolute majority of the valid votes cast at such Referendum: Provided that when the total number of valid votes cast does not exceed two-thirds of the whole number of electors entered in the register of electors, such Bill shall be deemed to be approved only if approved by not less than one-third of the whole number of such electors."
Source: Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 79, 80 and 85: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) All issues that the President regards important, except those matters in relation to which referendum is mandatory.
C:86 "The President may, subject to the provisions of Article 85, submit to the People by Referendum any matter which in the opinion of the President is of national importance."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 86: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President
Comments: C:86 "The President may, subject to the provisions of Article 85, submit to the People by Referendum any matter which in the opinion of the President is of national importance."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 86: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: 1) A Referendum in terms of Chapter XIII of me Constitution shall be conducted by the Commissioner of Elections (hereinafter referred to as the Commissioner ), where the President has, by Proclamation published in the Gazette, directed such Commissioner to conduct a Referendum.
(2) A Proclamation issued under subsection (1) shall
(a) specify the proposal to be put to the People at the Referendum in the form of a question which shall be answered by a " Yes " or a " No "
Source: Referendum Act, art. 2: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/s2.html
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: 1) A Referendum in terms of Chapter XIII of me Constitution shall be conducted by the Commissioner of Elections (hereinafter referred to as the Commissioner ), where the President has, by Proclamation published in the Gazette, directed such Commissioner to conduct a Referendum.
(2) A Proclamation issued under subsection (1) shall
(a) specify the proposal to be put to the People at the Referendum in the form of a question which shall be answered by a " Yes " or a " No "
Source: Referendum Act, art. 2: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/s2.html
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: 1) A Referendum in terms of Chapter XIII of me Constitution shall be conducted by the Commissioner of Elections (hereinafter referred to as the Commissioner ), where the President has, by Proclamation published in the Gazette, directed such Commissioner to conduct a Referendum.
(2) A Proclamation issued under subsection (1) shall
(a) specify the proposal to be put to the People at the Referendum in the form of a question which shall be answered by a " Yes " or a " No "
Source: Referendum Act, art. 2: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/s2.html
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments: C:85 "(3) Any Bill or any provision in any Bill submitted to the People by Referendum shall be deemed to be approved by the People if approved by an absolute majority of the valid votes cast at such Referendum: Provided that when the total number of valid votes cast does not exceed two-thirds of the whole number of electors entered in the register of electors, such Bill shall be deemed to be approved only if approved by not less than one-third of the whole number of such electors."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 85(3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments: C:85 "(3) Any Bill or any provision in any Bill submitted to the People by Referendum shall be deemed to be approved by the People if approved by an absolute majority of the valid votes cast at such Referendum: Provided that when the total number of valid votes cast does not exceed two-thirds of the whole number of electors entered in the register of electors, such Bill shall be deemed to be approved only if approved by not less than one-third of the whole number of such electors."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 85(3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
b . Under certain circumstances (specify below)
Comments: b) When the referendum is valid and passed.
C:80 "(1) Subject to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this Article, a Bill passed by Parliament shall become law when the certificate of the Speaker is endorsed thereon. (2) Where the Cabinet of Ministers has certified that any Bill or any provision thereof is intended to be submitted for approval by the People at a Referendum or where the Supreme Court has determined that a Bill or any provision thereof requires the approval of the People at a Referendum or where any Bill is submitted to the People by Referendum under paragraph (2) of Article 85, such Bill or such provision shall become law upon being approved by the People at a Referendum in accordance with paragraph (3) of Article 85 only when the President certifies that the Bill or provision thereof has been so approved. The President shall endorse on every Bill so approved a certificate in the following form : - “This Bill/provision has been 21[duly approved by the People at a Referendum.” No such certificate shall be endorsed by the President on a Bill – (a) in any case where no petition is filed challenging the validity of the referendum at which such bill was approved by the People, until after the expiration of the period within which a petition may be filed, under the law applicable in that behalf, challenging the validity of such referendum: (b) in any case where a petition is filed challenging the validity of the Referendum at which such Bill was approved by the People, until after the Supreme Court determines that such Referendum was valid.]"
C:85 "(3) Any Bill or any provision in any Bill submitted to the People by Referendum shall be deemed to be approved by the People if approved by an absolute majority of the valid votes cast at such Referendum: Provided that when the total number of valid votes cast does not exceed two-thirds of the whole number of electors entered in the register of electors, such Bill shall be deemed to be approved only if approved by not less than one-third of the whole number of such electors."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 80 and 85(3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2007/01/05
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
b . Under certain circumstances (specify below)
Comments: b) When the referendum is valid and passed.
C:80 "(1) Subject to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this Article, a Bill passed by Parliament shall become law when the certificate of the Speaker is endorsed thereon. (2) Where the Cabinet of Ministers has certified that any Bill or any provision thereof is intended to be submitted for approval by the People at a Referendum or where the Supreme Court has determined that a Bill or any provision thereof requires the approval of the People at a Referendum or where any Bill is submitted to the People by Referendum under paragraph (2) of Article 85, such Bill or such provision shall become law upon being approved by the People at a Referendum in accordance with paragraph (3) of Article 85 only when the President certifies that the Bill or provision thereof has been so approved. The President shall endorse on every Bill so approved a certificate in the following form : - “This Bill/provision has been 21[duly approved by the People at a Referendum.” No such certificate shall be endorsed by the President on a Bill – (a) in any case where no petition is filed challenging the validity of the referendum at which such bill was approved by the People, until after the expiration of the period within which a petition may be filed, under the law applicable in that behalf, challenging the validity of such referendum: (b) in any case where a petition is filed challenging the validity of the Referendum at which such Bill was approved by the People, until after the Supreme Court determines that such Referendum was valid.]"
C:85 "(3) Any Bill or any provision in any Bill submitted to the People by Referendum shall be deemed to be approved by the People if approved by an absolute majority of the valid votes cast at such Referendum: Provided that when the total number of valid votes cast does not exceed two-thirds of the whole number of electors entered in the register of electors, such Bill shall be deemed to be approved only if approved by not less than one-third of the whole number of such electors."
Source: The Constitution of Sri Lanka, art. 80 and 85(3): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 83, 85, 86: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 83, 85, 86: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/02/15
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments: 1971
Source: First constitution
Verified: 2016/02/15
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: P.M. Siriwardane, Deputy Commissioner of Election, telephone +94 11 286 8447.
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections d . At specially designated polling stations
Comments: a.) In order to administer the conduct of elections each of the 22 electoral districts on Sri Lanka are subdivided into a number of polling divisions. Each polling division has a number of polling stations for the conduct of poll. There were 9981 polling station during December 2001 parliamentary elections.
d.) There are also specially designated polling stations for voters from uncleared areas (war areas). They are know as cluster polling stations. There is also a provision for voters displaced due to conflict.
Source: Parliament Elections Act of 1981, Art. 35 (1), 26, 45: https://cmev.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/presidential_election_act.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
a . Outside the country voting is not permitted
Comments: There are no statutory provisions to cover the above categories.
Source: EU Final Observation Report of Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: There are no legislative provisions in this regard.
Source: EU Final Observation Report of Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
b . By mail
Comments:
Source: EU Final Observation Report of Sri Lanka's August 17 2015 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.eueom.eu/files/pressreleases/english/EUEOM_SriLanka_FinalReport_20151017.pdf
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: f.) Members of the army, navy, air force. Public servants unable to vote in person at the polling station alloted to him/her, for a purpose connected with work. Candidates on the ground that he/she is unable to vote at the polling station alloted to him/her by reason of his/her candidature in some other electoral districts.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act (No.1 1981), section 26.
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Final Report of the EU Election Observation Mission to Sri Lankas December 5th Parliamentary Elections.
Verified: 2016/02/04
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: Constitution, Art. 99: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LK/sri-lanka-constitution-as-amended-up-to-9/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/02/04
Forgot your password?
