Colombo, 31 August 2026 – The Parliament of Sri Lanka is set to convene for a four-day session from September 8 to 11, 2026, promising a packed agenda of legislative debates, ministerial questions, and private members’ motions. The schedule, finalized at a recent Committee on Parliamentary Business meeting chaired by the Hon. Speaker, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, outlines a busy week for lawmakers as they address key national issues.
The upcoming sessions are expected to tackle a range of subjects, from economic regulations under the Motor Traffic Act to discussions on the Chief of Defence Staff (Repeal) Bill and a significant resolution under the Women’s Empowerment Act. This period will provide an important platform for legislative action and accountability.
Key Agendas for the Week
Tuesday, September 8: Economic and Transport Regulations in Focus
The week’s proceedings will kick off on Tuesday, September 8. After the initial parliamentary business and question times for Oral Answers and Standing Order 27(2), the House will dedicate significant time from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to debate and approve two Orders published under the Motor Traffic Act (Chapter 203) in Extraordinary Gazettes Nos. 2489/22 and 2493/19. This debate is crucial for shaping road transport policies and regulations in the country. The day will conclude with a debate on a Motion at the Adjournment Time, to be moved by the Opposition.
Wednesday, September 9: Defence Legislation and Prime Ministerial Oversight
Wednesday’s agenda will feature a critical Second Reading debate on the Chief of Defence Staff (Repeal) Bill, scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This debate is anticipated to draw considerable attention, as it pertains to the top military leadership structure. Before this, members will have the opportunity to pose Questions to the Prime Minister, followed by general Questions for Oral Answers and those under Standing Order 27(2).
Thursday, September 10: Advancing Women’s Empowerment
A major highlight of the parliamentary week will be the debate on a Resolution under the Women’s Empowerment Act on Thursday, September 10, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This discussion underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality and women’s rights, potentially leading to important policy advancements. As with previous days, the morning will include routine parliamentary business and question sessions, with a Government-moved Motion at the Adjournment Time closing the day.
Friday, September 11: Diverse Private Members’ Motions
The final day, Friday, September 11, is dedicated primarily to Private Members’ Motions, reflecting a wide array of public concerns and policy proposals. Following initial parliamentary business and question times, the House will consider motions proposed by several Members of Parliament:
- Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha: Advocating for the regulation of petroleum, fuel, and water industries under the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka.
- Hon. Ajith P. Perera: Proposing incentives for family units to increase birth rates in Sri Lanka.
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva: Addressing the protection of the Diyagama Forest.
- Hon. Sujeewa Dissanayake: Seeking the abolition of the additional six percent pension deduction for Pirivena Teachers.
- Hon. Nanda Bandara: Focusing on food crop cultivation in mountainous areas.
- Hon. T.K. Jayasundara: Proposing measures for developing the Kithul Industry.
- Hon. (Dr.) M. L. A. M. Hizbullah: Championing the establishment of a Faculty of Medicine for the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.
These motions offer insights into varied issues requiring parliamentary attention and underscore the role of individual lawmakers in initiating policy discussions.
The upcoming parliamentary sessions are critical for the nation’s legislative progress, offering transparency and accountability in governance as key policies and bills are deliberated.
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