In the landscape of Sri Lankan governance, the evolution of the Parliamentary system has been pivotal in shaping the country’s political and administrative framework. Among the various reforms and innovations, the establishment and functioning of Sectoral Oversight Committees stand out as a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing accountability, inclusivity, and transparency in legislative processes.
Dwelling in-depth into the historical context, structure, functionality, and innovative practices of these Committees, it would be interesting to observe the significance of the Committee system of the Parliament in the democratic governance of Sri Lanka.
Parliamentary mechanisms
The genesis of Sectoral Oversight Committees is a testament to the country’s commitment to refining its Parliamentary mechanisms. The idea of these Committees was first mooted in 2015, during a period of significant political change and reform. The conventional Ministerial Consultative Committee system, which had been a staple of the Parliamentary process, was found to be increasingly inadequate in addressing the complex and multifaceted issues facing the nation. Thus, the need for a more robust and efficient system was identified by the legislature to be more apparent.
In 2018, the formal establishment of Sectoral Oversight Committees was realised with the implementation of new Standing Orders in Parliament. This reform was reminiscent of the Donoughmore Reform of 1931 which introduced the executive committee system in Sri Lanka.
Both historical and contemporary reforms share a common goal which is to involve a broad spectrum of parliamentarians in policy formulation and oversight. This inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered in the legislative process, fostering a more democratic and representative governance structure.
The structure of Sectoral Oversight Committees is meticulously designed to ensure effectiveness and impartiality. According to Standing Order 111 of Parliament, the Committee of Selection at the commencement of Parliament appoints various Sectoral Oversight Committees which shall be not more than 20 of which the subjects and functions are also determined by the Committee of Selection.
These Committees cover a wide range of government policy and administrative areas, including religious affairs and co-existence, reconciliation and national unity, national security, national economic and physical plans, international relations, increasing export of goods and services, alleviating the impact of the economic crisis, energy and transport, food security and agriculture, environment, natural resources and sustainable development, education, foreign employment and labour, just and law- abiding society, health, children, women and gender, media, youth, heritage and new citizen and media, youth, heritage and new citizen.
Each Committee is composed of members from both the government and the opposition, fostering a bipartisan approach to governance. A unique feature of these Committees is the exclusion of Cabinet Ministers, State Ministers, and Deputy Ministers from holding the Chairmanship or serving in the Committee whose jurisdiction and related functions are the same as any subject, function, Department or Institution they hold. However, they may be invited to such Committees to assist the Committee when a Bill is being discussed during the Committee. This mechanism ensures that the oversight function remains independent and free from potential conflicts of interest.
The tendency to appoint a Member of the Opposition as the Committee Chair is rather notable, reinforcing the impartial nature of the Sectoral Oversight Committee system.
The operational dynamics of Sectoral Oversight Committees are characterised by a high degree of transparency and accountability. These Committees are mandated to report their findings to Parliament at a constant. Standing Order 111(3) of Parliament entails that the Sectoral Oversight Committees shall have the power to examine any Bill. However, except the Bills defined in Article 152 of the Constitution, Treaty, Reports including the Annual and Performance Reports relating to the institutions coming under its purview or any other matter referred to the Committee by Parliament or any Committee or a Minister relating to the subjects and functions within their jurisdiction shall act as an exception.
Reports tabled by the Sectoral Oversight Committees include recommendations addressed to the Government and ensure that the executive branch is held accountable to the legislature, fostering a system of checks and balances that is essential for democratic governance. The recommendations often encompass a wide range of issues, from policy adjustments to administrative reforms, reflecting the committees’ thorough and detailed examination of government actions.
One of the most innovative aspects of the Sectoral Oversight Committees is the inclusion of youth voices in the legislative process. This initiative was a direct response to the youth-led Aragalaya movement in 2022, which underscored the importance of engaging young people in governance. President Ranil Wickremesinghe recognised the potential of youth participation in enhancing the effectiveness and relevance of parliamentary oversight.
Selected youth are now given the opportunity to participate in Committee meetings. This inclusion brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the legislative process, ensuring that the voices of the younger generation are heard and considered in policy formulation and oversight. The involvement of youth also serves as an educational experience, providing them with first hand exposure to the intricacies of parliamentary work and fostering a sense of civic responsibility and engagement.
Policy formulation and implementation
The impact of Sectoral Oversight Committees on policy formulation and implementation in Sri Lanka has been profound. By providing a platform for detailed scrutiny and analysis of government actions, these Committees ensure that policies are not only well-conceived but also effectively implemented. The rigorous examination of policy proposals and their subsequent oversight during the implementation phase helps identify potential issues and challenges, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments.
Looking ahead, there is significant potential for Sectoral Oversight Committees to expand their role and influence on Sri Lankan governance. One promising avenue is the increased use of technology and digital tools to enhance transparency and public engagement.
Live streaming of Committee meetings and the use of online platforms for public consultations have already increased visibility and has allowed citizens to participate more actively in the legislative process.
The establishment and operation of Sectoral Oversight Committees mark a significant milestone in the evolution of Sri Lanka’s parliamentary governance. These Committees have brought about a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable legislative process, contributing to the overall strengthening of democratic governance in the country.
Through their detailed scrutiny of government actions, inclusive representation, and innovative practices like youth participation, these committees have demonstrated their potential to impact policy formulation and implementation positively. However, to sustain and enhance their effectiveness, it is essential to address the challenges they face and continuously build its capacity.
Learning from global best practices and leveraging technology to increase transparency and public engagement, Sri Lanka can further enhance the role and influence of Sectoral Oversight Committees in its governance framework. As these committees continue to evolve, they hold the promise of fostering a more accountable, inclusive, and responsive Parliament, ultimately benefitting all Sri Lankans.
The writer is Media Officer, Parliament of Sri Lanka.
