The Local Authorities Elections (Special Provisions) Bill will be presented to Parliament today at 2:00 p.m. for approval of Clauses 2 and 3 by a special parliamentary majority.
The Supreme Court ruled last Friday that these clauses are inconsistent with Article 12(1) of the Constitution and must be passed with a two-thirds majority under Article 84(2).
Clause 2 allows for the cancellation of nominations for the Local Government Election scheduled for March 9, 2023, and includes provisions for the refund of deposits made by political parties and independent groups. Clause 3 outlines steps for conducting the election in accordance with the Ordinance.
Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Chandana Abeyratne confirmed that the vote on the bill will take place this afternoon.
