Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) together with the Bar Association Sri Lanka (BASL) conducted a debate and panel discussion entitled “The Electoral Reform Debate in Sri Lanka” on 26th July at the BASL auditorium. The aim of this debate was to consider the different options proposed by way of electoral systems with a view to creating public debate around the principles of the issue.
TISL together with Verite Research has developed a paper that discusses the salient features of Mixed Member Proportionate (MMP) system as an answer to the President’s promise of delivering an electoral system that enshrines small constituent representation and proportionality. This paper was circulated among the audience along with literature on Mixed Member Proportionate and the features of the existing electoral system and is also available on the website.
This was TISL first collaboration with the BASL. The program was attended by members of the legal fraternity, civil society representatives, officers attached to the election department, media and other interest groups.
Panelists and topics as follows.
Existing Electoral System – Rohana Hettiarachchi – Executive Director, PAFFREL
Mixed Member Majoritarian System – Sujata Gamage Team Leader, Team Leader, Human Capital Research Program, LIRNEasia
Mixed Member Proportional System – Janeen Fernando – Senior Analyst and Head of Politics, Verité Research
Introduction and welcome speech delivering by Mr. Asoka Obeyesekere, Executive Director, Transparency International Sri Lanka.
Mr. Janeen Fernando, Senior Analyst and Head of Politics, Verité Research is answering to the question directed by audience
One of the participants making his question to the panel
One of participants contributing to the debate
Participants for the programme