January 09, Colombo (LNW): Parliament will convene today (09) for the introduction of two significant pieces of legislation: the 2025 Appropriation Bill and the Local Government Elections (Special Provisions) Bill.
These bills, which are expected to shape the political and fiscal landscape in the coming months, will be subject to rigorous debate and voting procedures.
The 2025 Appropriation Bill, which outlines the government’s budgetary allocations for the year, will be presented to Parliament today. Members will have the opportunity to review the draft bill, with the second reading scheduled for February, 17.
Following this, a robust debate on the bill will occur from February 18 until February 25, with a vote on the second reading set for the evening of February 25.
Once the second reading has passed, the bill will proceed to the Committee Stage Debate, also known as the Third Reading Debate.
This phase will run from February 27 to March 21, culminating in the third reading vote, which will take place on the evening of March 21.
If approved, the Appropriation Bill will provide the necessary funds for the government’s operations throughout the year, reflecting key priorities and fiscal policy directions.
In addition to the Appropriation Bill, the Local Government Elections (Special Provisions) Bill will also be introduced today.
This bill, which has already been published in the Gazette, proposes new measures for the upcoming local government elections.
The Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government recently submitted the draft bill, which aims to facilitate the calling of fresh nominations for the local elections.
If passed, the bill will empower the Election Commission to request new nominations, ensuring the election process is transparent, fair, and up-to-date.
This move comes in response to various changes in the political and electoral landscape, with the government keen to ensure that the local government elections are conducted smoothly and efficiently.
