The ceremonial opening of the First Session of Sri Lanka’s Tenth Parliament will take place tomorrow, 21 November, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s legislative calendar. The event, scheduled to commence at 10:00 a.m., will feature President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presenting the Government Policy Statement at 11:30 a.m.

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.

In a notable departure from routine, seating arrangements for Members of Parliament will not be pre-assigned, allowing MPs to choose their seats freely.

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

This year’s opening ceremony will adopt a minimalistic approach under President Dissanayake's guidance. Traditional military honours, gun salutes, and motorcades will not feature in the event, reflecting a focus on simplicity. The Serjeant-at-Arms, Kushan Jayaratne, confirmed that the Jaya Mangala Gatha will also not be recited.

Distinguished guests, including foreign diplomats, have been invited to witness the proceedings, with e-invitations ensuring a streamlined process.

The Speaker and Secretary-General, Kushani Rohanadeera, will formally welcome President Dissanayake at 11:20 a.m. at the Parliament’s main staircase, after which he will be escorted to the Robbin Room and subsequently to the chamber in a traditional procession.

The session will conclude following the President's address, setting the stage for legislative activities in the months ahead.