Sri Lanka's Constitutional Changes and Democracy

The video discusses the importance of the three organs of state in a democracy: the executive, legislature, and judiciary. It highlights the impact of Sri Lanka's 20th Amendment, which expanded presidential powers and removed checks and balances. The abolition of the Constitutional Council and its replacement with a parliamentary council is examined, showing how it limits oversight. The video concludes by emphasizing the negative consequences for Sri Lanka's democratic governance.

What are the three main organs of a democratic state?

• Legislature, Judiciary, Media

• Executive, Military, Judiciary

• Executive, Legislature, Judiciary

• Executive, Legislature, Media

What was a significant change brought by the 20th Amendment in Sri Lanka?

• Introduction of a new legislative body

• Removal of checks and balances on executive power

• Strengthening of the judiciary

• Expansion of civil rights

What was the role of the Constitutional Council before its abolition?

• To oversee the military

• To manage the country's finances

• To agree on appointments to major state institutions

• To draft new laws

What replaced the Constitutional Council after its abolition?

• A civil society forum

• A new executive committee

• A parliamentary council

• A judicial review board

What is the main function of the new Parliamentary Council?

• To conduct elections

• To make observations

• To enforce laws

• To make binding decisions

How did the 20th Amendment affect the executive powers in Sri Lanka?

• It limited executive powers

• It expanded executive powers

• It transferred executive powers to the judiciary

• It abolished executive powers

What is a consequence of the increased executive powers due to the 20th Amendment?

• Enhanced public participation

• Improved governance

• Disregard for government institutions

• Strengthening of democratic institutions

What does the 20th Amendment signify for Sri Lanka's democracy?

• An enhancement of civil liberties

• A step back from democratic principles

• A move towards a more balanced government

• A reduction in presidential powers

What is the current status of Sri Lanka's democracy after the 20th Amendment?

• Fully functioning democracy

• Pretensions of being a formal democracy

• Complete autocracy

• Improved democratic governance

What is needed for Sri Lanka to claim adherence to democratic governance?

• More international aid

• More executive power

• A return to fundamental democratic principles

• Increased military involvement