Politics in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan politics operates across national, provincial and local levels. The president and Parliament are central national institutions, while provincial councils and local authorities handle matters assigned to them by law. Government ministries and public bodies put policies into practice, and courts address legal disputes and questions about the exercise of public authority. Political parties and political groups organize candidates, present policy positions and compete for public support. Elections in Sri Lanka include presidential and parliamentary elections as well as elections for subnational bodies. Their voting systems and the offices being filled can differ, so the relevant election determines whether voters choose a candidate, a party or group, and in some cases preferences among candidates. Politics continues between elections through legislation, government administration, parliamentary oversight, court proceedings and public participation. To understand a political issue, identify which institution has responsibility, which level of government is involved, whether an election or another legal process is relevant, and which official body publishes the applicable decision or result.