President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who arrived in the Parliament a short while ago, commenced delivering the government’s policy statement to the House after the first session of the Tenth Parliament was inaugurated this morning (21).

The first sitting of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka commenced at 10.00 a.m. this morning with the participation of the newly-elected legislators.

Following the initial formalities including the election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, Parliament was temporarily suspended until 11.30 a.m.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presided over the Speaker’s Chair and presented the Government’s Policy Statement in accordance with Articles 32(4) and 33 of the Constitution.

Under Article 33(a) of the Constitution, the President is empowered to present the Government’s Policy Statement at the commencement of each new session of Parliament. According to Article 33(b) of the Constitution, the President is also vested with the power to preside over the ceremonial sittings of Parliament.

Accordingly, at the beginning of every new session of Parliament, it is the President who presents the Government’s Policy Statement. Through this address, the President elaborates on the government’s future vision, presenting detailed policy outlines to both Parliament and the public. 

Historically, this address was referred to as the “Throne Speech” and was delivered by the Governor-General.

Watch the live video of the President’s policy statement above...