In an official proclamation published in the government gazette by President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, it has been announced that the Sri Lanka Parliament will be prorogued effective midnight on Friday, January 26. This prorogation marks the conclusion of the fourth session of the Ninth Parliament.
The Extraordinary Gazette, issued by virtue of the powers vested in the President by Article 70 of the Constitution, outlines the suspension of parliamentary activities until February 07. The upcoming parliamentary session is scheduled to commence at 10:30 a.m. on February 07.
During the ceremonial opening of a new session, the President traditionally declares the Parliament open and presents the Government’s Policy Statement. This statement, previously known as the Throne Speech, is not subject to debate or a vote, as per current practice.
Upon prorogation, any pending questions and motions not addressed by the Parliament are nullified, requiring Members of Parliament to reintroduce them in accordance with the Standing Orders.
Furthermore, following the commencement of the new session, all committees, except the Liaison Committee of Parliament, Committee on High Posts, Select Committees, and Sectoral Oversight Committees, are slated to be re-constituted. This procedural reshuffling ensures the Parliament's committees are aligned with the evolving legislative landscape.
