Parliament to Hold Special Meeting on February 14th

The decision was made today, February 10th, at a Parliamentary Affairs Committee meeting led by Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvi Salley. According to Acting Secretary General of Parliament, Chaminda Kularatne, the Speaker called the meeting to brief Parliament on the petitions filed in the Supreme Court related to the bill.

The meeting was convened at the request of the Prime Minister, in accordance with Standing Order 16 of Parliament. A Ministerial Consultative Committee is also set to meet on February 14th to further discuss the bill.

Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Ratnayake, reiterated the importance of holding local government elections promptly, in line with the Supreme Court’s order, emphasizing that delays should be avoided.

The Acting Secretary General confirmed that the second reading of the Local Government Elections (Special Provisions) Bill will take place on Monday, February 17th, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Opposition amendments to the bill must be submitted before 10:00 a.m. on that day.

In addition, President and Finance Minister will present the Appropriation Bill for 2025 for its second reading on the same day, February 17th, at 10:30 a.m., as previously scheduled.

These discussions are expected to address urgent matters concerning both local government elections and national fiscal policies.