COLOMBO — Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has earmarked 5 billion rupees (approximately $16.6 million) to finance the upcoming parliamentary election, a cabinet spokesperson announced Tuesday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the allocation was disclosed following the first cabinet meeting chaired by President Dissanayake. Cabinet spokesperson Vijitha Herath elaborated that the total cost anticipated for conducting the parliamentary election is around 11 billion rupees ($36.6 million). The 2024 national budget had initially designated funds solely for the September 21 presidential election, omitting any financial provision for the subsequent parliamentary poll.

Herath further detailed that of the required sum, 5 billion rupees have been sanctioned under presidential authority to partially cover the election expenses. The shortfall of 6 billion rupees is planned to be sourced in 2025 through a "vote on account," to be presented in parliament as part of the next year's budget discussions. This financial strategy, endorsed by the cabinet of ministers, aims to ensure the smooth facilitation of the election process.

Following his recent election victory, President Dissanayake dissolved the existing parliament, setting the stage for the next parliamentary elections slated for November 14. The new parliament is expected to convene for the first time on November 21.