Asian Politics Questions Long
The political system of Sri Lanka is a democratic republic with a semi-presidential system. It is based on the 1978 Constitution, which was amended in 2015. The country follows a multi-party system, with power being divided among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
At the top of the political system is the President, who is both the head of state and the head of government. The President is elected by the people through a popular vote and serves as the chief executive. The President appoints the Prime Minister, who is the head of the government and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country. The Prime Minister is usually the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Parliament.
The Parliament of Sri Lanka is the legislative body and consists of 225 members. Out of these, 196 members are elected through a proportional representation system, while 29 members are appointed by the President to ensure representation of minority communities. The Parliament is responsible for making laws, approving the national budget, and overseeing the government's activities.
The judiciary in Sri Lanka is independent and plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country and has the power of judicial review. It ensures that laws and actions of the government are in line with the Constitution. The judiciary also includes the Court of Appeal and other subordinate courts.
Sri Lanka has a multi-party system, with several political parties representing different ideologies and interests. The two major political parties are the United National Party (UNP) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). However, smaller parties and independent candidates also play a significant role in the political landscape.
Ethnic and religious diversity is a significant aspect of Sri Lankan politics. The country is composed of various ethnic groups, including the Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims. The political system strives to ensure representation and protection of the rights of all communities. However, ethnic tensions and conflicts have influenced the political dynamics of the country, particularly the relationship between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority.
In recent years, Sri Lanka has faced challenges related to governance, corruption, and human rights. Efforts have been made to address these issues through constitutional reforms, strengthening of democratic institutions, and promoting transparency and accountability.
Overall, the political system of Sri Lanka is characterized by a democratic framework, with a separation of powers and a commitment to protecting the rights and interests of its diverse population. However, ongoing challenges and the need for further reforms highlight the evolving nature of the political landscape in the country.