A special meeting was held at Parliament recently to discuss the future work of the Expert Panel appointed to reform the electoral system, excluding Provincial Council (PC) Elections, to make it more efficient, transparent, and responsive to the expectations of the people. The discussion was held under the Chairpersonship of the Public Administration, PCs and Local Government Minister Prof A H M H Abayarathna who is also the Chairperson of the Select Committee of Parliament to review the laws dealing with Elections (excluding laws dealing with PC Elections) and report to Parliament and submit its proposals and recommendations in that regard. The meeting included extensive discussions on the role of the Expert Panel, the matters that should be reviewed, and how the next stages of the process should be carried out. The Expert Panel is expected to conduct an in-depth review of 31 proposals submitted by the public and various organisations concerning electoral reforms and to make the necessary recommendations. The relevant studies and research conducted by the university community and research institutions will also be taken into consideration during the review process. The Panel has been given a period of two months to conduct this review. During this period, attention will be focused not only on identifying shortcomings in the existing electoral system, but also, where necessary, on making recommendations for establishing a new electoral system and electoral culture with more constructive and positive features. Accordingly, the ultimate objective of the Committee is not merely to introduce several amendments to the existing system. Rather, it is to present Parliament with a report containing the necessary policy and legislative recommendations for a more credible, democratic, and efficient electoral system that is suited to the current needs and expectations of the people.