President Ranil Wickremesinghe appointed a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) to examine the country's election laws and regulations. 

The CoI headed by retired Chief Justice (CJ) Priyasath Dep PC, is tasked with recommending necessary amendments to the election laws to suit current needs better.

While the CoI’s stated objectives include proposals to blend electoral systems, increase representation for women and youth, and explore electronic voting, its appointment has sparked controversy. 

The Lawyers' Collective, a group of legal professionals, has expressed concerns about the CoI’s creation. They argue that the Constitution already assigns such responsibilities to the Elections Commission (EC), questioning the motives behind this new commission.

According to the group, the CoI’s timing is suspicious, as it coincides with the upcoming Presidential Election scheduled for 2024. 

There are apprehensions that the appointment may be used to delay constitutionally mandated electoral processes. 

The Lawyers' Collective urges President Wickremesinghe to ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and free from interference as per democratic principles.