Franchise or the Right to Vote
In Sri Lanka, the franchise or the right to vote is a fundamental democratic right that allows citizens to participate in the governance of the country. This system has evolved through various historical stages to become the universal franchise exercised today.
The Franchise, also known as the Right to Vote, is a fundamental aspect of democracy in Sri Lanka. It gives citizens the power to choose their representatives and participate directly in the governing process of the country.
In Sri Lanka, the right to vote is guaranteed by the Constitution and is an important part of the sovereignty of the people. Every citizen who meets the legal requirements has the right to vote without discrimination.
The franchise allows citizens to elect the President, Members of Parliament, and representatives of local government bodies. Through voting, people express their opinions and hold leaders accountable.
Free and fair elections are essential to protect the franchise. The Election Commission of Sri Lanka is responsible for conducting elections and ensuring that voting is transparent and democratic.
Understanding the right to vote helps citizens appreciate their role in a democracy and encourages responsible participation in elections.
Franchise (Right to Vote) – Quiz
Choose the correct answer for each question.
1. What is meant by franchise?
A. Right to education
B. Right to vote
C. Right to work
D. Right to speech
Answer: B
2. The right to vote in Sri Lanka is guaranteed by the:
A. Penal Code
B. Constitution
C. Parliament Act
D. Civil Law
Answer: B
3. Who can vote in Sri Lanka?
A. Only politicians
B. Only government officers
C. Eligible citizens
D. Only elders
Answer: C
4. At what age can a Sri Lankan citizen vote?
A. 16 years
B. 18 years
C. 21 years
D. 25 years
Answer: B
5. Which election elects the President?
A. Parliamentary election
B. Local government election
C. Presidential election
D. Provincial election
Answer: C
6. Who conducts elections in Sri Lanka?
A. Parliament
B. Supreme Court
C. Election Commission
D. Police
Answer: C
7. Voting in Sri Lanka is:
A. Compulsory
B. Optional
C. Restricted
D. Illegal
Answer: B
8. Which principle ensures secret voting?
A. Open ballot
B. Secret ballot
C. Public voting
D. Group voting
Answer: B
9. The franchise is part of which concept?
A. Colonial rule
B. Sovereignty of the people
C. Military rule
D. Dictatorship
Answer: B
10. Which document is used to vote?
A. Birth certificate
B. Driving license
C. National Identity Card
D. Passport only
Answer: C
11. Which type of election chooses Members of Parliament?
A. Presidential
B. Local
C. Parliamentary
D. Referendum
Answer: C
12. Why is voting important?
A. To increase population
B. To choose leaders
C. To avoid laws
D. To stop democracy
Answer: B
13. Who has the responsibility to protect the franchise?
A. Only citizens
B. Only police
C. The state and Election Commission
D. Courts only
Answer: C
14. Which voting system is used in Sri Lanka?
A. First-past-the-post only
B. Proportional representation
C. Single transferable vote
D. Lottery system
Answer: B
15. Which election is held to decide a national issue?
A. Referendum
B. Presidential election
C. Local election
D. Provincial election
Answer: A
16. What ensures free and fair elections?
A. Military control
B. Rule of law
C. Secret voting
D. High taxes
Answer: C
17. Who can contest elections?
A. Only judges
B. Only citizens meeting requirements
C. Only ministers
D. Only police
Answer: B
18. The right to vote promotes:
A. Dictatorship
B. Democracy
C. Colonial rule
D. Monarchy
Answer: B
19. Which body resolves election disputes?
A. Election Commission
B. Supreme Court
C. Police
D. Parliament
Answer: B
20. Why should citizens use their vote responsibly?
A. To weaken government
B. To strengthen democracy
C. To avoid duties
D. To stop elections
Answer: B