By Sandithi Apputhanthri

The Tenth Parliament’s inaugural session is set to take place on 21 November 2024, following the 2024 General Election.

Following the general election, scheduled for 14 November 2024, the inaugural session will bring together 225 parliamentarians, including 196 elected members and 29 appointed through the national list, as per the Extraordinary Gazette Notification No. 2403/13 dated 2024.09.24 issued by the President.

On the first day, primary responsibilities within the Chamber are entrusted to the Secretary-General of Parliament.

In accordance with Article 64 (1) of the Constitution and Standing Orders 4, 5, and 6 of Parliament, the Speaker is elected by vote, followed by the administration of the official affirmation or oath of office by the Speaker.

Thereafter, Members of Parliament take their official affirmation or oath, and the Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chairperson of Committees are elected by vote.

After nominations for the Deputy Speaker and Deputy Chairperson are made, the Speaker will ask the House if there are any further nominations. If none are forthcoming, the nominated Members are elected to their respective positions. Should a vote be necessary, the procedure followed will mirror that of the election of the Speaker, with the notable difference that the voting will be conducted by the Speaker rather than the Secretary-General.

Once these activities are completed, Parliament will be adjourned. Typically, the adjournment will last until the next scheduled parliamentary day.

However, according to Article 33 of the Constitution, if the President addresses Parliament on that day to present the government policy statement, the House will be temporarily suspended at the end of these initial proceedings. When Parliament reconvenes, the President will preside over the House and present the government policy statement.

Following the policy statement, the President will then adjourn Parliament until the next scheduled day.