The Presidential Commission of Inquiry to make necessary recommendations for the amendment of election laws has requested the President to extend its official term.

Its Secretary Madhawa Dewasurendra said the request was made by the Chairman of the Commission.

The Commission was appointed on the 15th of October, 2023, and its official term will end on the 15th of April, 2024.

The Commission said however the term is not sufficient to prepare reports under the prevailing situation.

Three sub-committees are currently functioning under the Commission to submit recommendations under each section for the revision of the electoral system.

Dewasurendra said one sub-committee will consider the proposals regarding the Constitutional legal framework related to the electoral system and make recommendations.

Another sub-committee will study media criteria and women's representation and make recommendations.

The Secretary said another sub-committee will present recommendations regarding preparing a code of conduct and the role of candidates and political parties, following the announcement of an election.

Dewasurendra said the basic draft related to the new electoral system will be prepared after receiving the relevant recommendations.

He said the electoral systems of democratic countries such as India, Singapore, Canada, Britain, Switzerland and Estonia are being studied at present, to gain an understanding of the models that can be used to amend Sri Lanka's electoral system.

A discussion will also be held on Wednesday (20) between the Commission and the Women Parliamentarians Caucus in Parliament, to discuss issues related to women's participation.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe appointed the Commission of Inquiry headed by retired Chief Justice Priyasath Dep PC to obtain and submit information, investigate, inquire into and examine all existing election laws and regulations and make necessary recommendations for the amendment of election laws.