New president will have to wait until February to dissolve parliament

The current term of parliament is until August 2020 and the President will have legal authority to dissolve parliament only in February 2020, said Dr. Kumudu Kusumkumara.

He noted that it is normal for any president to want a government that is in his favour.


Even though the President’s powers are limited with the 19th Amendment, the president is still considered the head of state.

The president holds the power to command the military forces and appoint secretaries to the relevant ministries. Since the secretaries holds greater powers within the country’s administrative structure, the next president is certainly not a ceremonial figure only.

He further said, “It is the responsibility of every citizen to think independently and cast their vote tomorrow. It is also very important to maintain peace and cast your vote early.”