Explainers

Of the 225 seats in the Sri Lankan Parliament, 196 MPs are elected from 22 multi-member electoral districts. The remaining 29 seats are allocated to contesting parties and independent groups in proportion to their share of the national vote. These 29 seats are referred to as the National List.

This year's presidential election in Sri Lanka could mark a significant moment in the country's political history. For the first time, preferential votes may play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the election.