President serving as both the head of state and head of government. Elected by popular vote for a six-year term, the President appoints the Cabinet of Ministers responsible for implementing policies. The Parliament, a unicameral legislature, is composed of Members of Parliament (MPs) elected through proportional representation and the first-past-the-post system. The multi-party system in Sri Lanka means that the party or coalition with a majority in Parliament forms the government. The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, operates independently, ensuring the rule of law. The country’s political history has been shaped by ethnic tensions, notably between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority, culminating in a protracted civil conflict that ended in 2009 with the defeat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Despite its democratic structure, Sri Lanka faces ongoing challenges related to post-war reconciliation, ethnic relations, and economic development.

In recent years, Sri Lanka’s political landscape has witnessed shifts in government, reflecting the dynamic nature of the country’s politics. While the democratic principles of governance persist, concerns have been raised regarding issues such as governance transparency, human rights, and the concentration of power. The nation continues to grapple with the complexities of post-conflict reconstruction, reconciliation efforts, and the pursuit of sustainable economic development. Sri Lanka’s political structure is evolving in response to these challenges, as leaders seek to address historical grievances and foster a more inclusive and stable future for the country.