Constitutional Council (Sri Lanka)

The Constitutional Council of Sri Lanka is a ten-member body established under the 19th Amendment to the Constitution (later altered by the 20th and 22nd Amendments). Its primary function is to make recommendations to the President regarding appointments to certain high offices.

These high offices typically include members of the Election Commission, the Public Service Commission, the National Police Commission, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, the Finance Commission, the Delimitation Commission, and the Secretary-General of Parliament. The Council also reviews nominations for the Chief Justice and Judges of the Supreme Court, the President and Judges of the Court of Appeal, the Attorney General, the Inspector General of Police, the Auditor General, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration (Ombudsman).

The composition of the Council has varied depending on constitutional amendments. Typically, it includes the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, the Leader of the Opposition, a nominee of the President, and several Members of Parliament and civil society representatives. The composition and powers of the Council have been subject to political debate and legislative changes, with different amendments altering its role and influence in the appointment process.

The purpose of the Constitutional Council is to enhance transparency and accountability in appointments to key institutions, thereby promoting good governance and the rule of law. It aims to depoliticize the appointment process by ensuring broader consultation and scrutiny of nominees.