The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the drafting of the Local Government Elections (Special Provisions) Bill to enable the withdrawal of nominations for Local Government (LG) Elections.
Speaking at the Cabinet briefing yesterday (03), Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the decision to draft this bill was initially made during the Cabinet meeting on September 2, 2024.
The aim is to revoke the nominations submitted for the 2023 LG Elections and facilitate the calling of fresh nominations.
During a party leaders’ meeting on November 25 chaired by the Speaker and attended by leaders of recognised political parties, consensus was reached to cancel the 2023 nominations and issue a call for new nominations for the upcoming elections.
In line with this agreement, the Cabinet has approved a proposal by the Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government Minister to direct the Legal Draftsman to prepare the Bill.
The proposed legislation will authorise the Election Commission to withdraw the previous nominations and initiate a new nomination process.
Dr. Jayatissa emphasised that this measure seeks to uphold voters’ rights and provide greater opportunities for youth to participate in the electoral process by submitting nominations.