The 10th Parliament will convene following the sounding of the quorum Bell at 9:55 am today and the inaugural session commencing at 10:00 am.

Key Proceedings of the Day

The session will begin with the sounding of the quorum bell at 9:55 a.m., after which the mace will be ceremonially placed in the chamber. The Secretary-General of Parliament will then table the Extraordinary Gazette Notifications issued by the President, outlining the schedule for the inaugural session.

The election of the Speaker will be the first order of business, conducted in accordance with Article 64(1) of the Constitution and Standing Orders 4, 5, and 6. The newly elected Speaker will then take the oath of office, followed by oaths or affirmations by all Members of Parliament. Subsequent elections will be held for the positions of Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chairperson of Committees.

Presentation of the Government Policy Statement

After the morning’s proceedings, Parliament will adjourn until 11:30 a.m., when President Dissanayake will preside over the Speaker’s Chair to deliver the Government’s Policy Statement. This presentation, carried out under Articles 32(4) and 33 of the Constitution, is expected to outline the administration’s legislative and policy agenda.

Simplified Ceremonial Arrangements

Arrangements have been made to conduct the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament as a charm ceremonial event under the instructions of the President. Furthermore, there will be no recital of Jaya Mangala Gatha, no formal military honours, gun salutes, or motorcades, the Serjeant-at-Arms Kushan Jayaratne said.

On the first day, Members are free to sit in any seat of their choice, as no seating arrangements are pre-assigned, which is a unique feature.

Distinguished guests, including foreign diplomats, have been invited to this inaugural session. According to Serjeant-at-Arms Kushan Jayaratne, e-invitations were sent for the event.