ABSTRACT
Sri Lanka has struggled to create a viable political system that is sensitive to the culture of the country and maintains democratic institutions. The last constitutional change in 1978 concentrated power in the presidency and is thus a source of danger today to the democratic institutions of the government. The Soulbury constitution generated many criticisms because of its similarity to the governmental structure of Sri Lanka's former colonial ruler, Great Britain. The development of a patronage system in which the members of parliament are the main distributors of benefits has focused citizen interest on the Member of Parliament’s and away from the government agent's. The United National Party's election manifesto promised a new constitution and the creation of a presidential form of government. In addition, a significant number of public corporations oversee government businesses and industries. In addition to the kachcheri and the provincial councils, there are several elected local government councils in each district.
