Speaker announces Supreme Court ruling on Local Authorities Elections Bill
(Photo credit: Parliament of Sri Lanka)
The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has made its determination on the “Local Authorities Elections (Special Provisions)” Bill, which was challenged under Article 121(1) of the Constitution.
The Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, announced this to the Parliament of Sri Lanka today (February 14).
The Bill was heard by a three-judge bench. The Speaker revealed that two of the judges, forming the majority, concluded that the Bill, particularly Clauses 2 and 3, is inconsistent with Article 12(1) of the Constitution. As such, the Bill can only be passed with a special majority, as required under Article 84(2).
However, the third judge of the bench disagreed, stating that the Bill, in its entirety, does not violate the Constitution and can be enacted with a simple majority in Parliament.
The decision now clears the path for further parliamentary proceedings on the Bill, depending on how lawmakers choose to proceed.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- PHI arrested in Galewela for Rs. 200,000 bribe over hotel trade license February 15, 2025
- Bus overturns near Panadura flyover, four injured February 15, 2025
- AG files money laundering charges against Yoshitha, Grandmother February 14, 2025
- Speaker announces Supreme Court ruling on Local Authorities Elections Bill February 14, 2025
- Sri Lanka ends daily power cuts as Norochcholai unit rejoins national grid February 14, 2025
