President Maithripala Sirisena has consulted the Supreme Court regarding the period of his term of office. He has asked the Supreme Court whether the period of his term ends in 5 years or six years.
Mr Maithripala Sirisena won the presidential election held on 8th January 2015 and he was sworn in as President the following day (9th January 2015).
After he was sworn in the term of the President was reduced to 5 years after the enactment of the 19th Amendment. Earlier, according to the Constitution, a President was elected for a term of six years.
As the swearing-in occurred before the 19th amendment to the Constitution the President has asked Supreme Court whether he could continue in office for 6 years or whether his term ends in 5 years.
The Registrar of the Supreme Court has informed the Secretary to the President in writing that the Supreme Court has listed the case for 11th January and SC determination will be communicated to the President on 14th January.
When Mr Maithripala Sirisena was sworn in he said he would not seek a second term and the executive presidency would be abolished.