The correct option is 1, 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
In 1978, Sri Lanka amended its constitution to transition from a parliamentary system to an Executive Presidency. In this semi-presidential model, the President functions as the Head of State, Head of Government, and Commander-in-Chief, holding significant authority independent of the legislature.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The President is elected directly by the people through a nationwide vote, distinct from the election of Members of Parliament.
- Statement 2 is Correct: While the President heads the executive, the system retains a Prime Minister. The President selects the Prime Minister from the party that commands a majority in the Parliament.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The Executive President holds vast powers regarding the composition of the government. Under the 1978 constitutional framework, the President has the authority to appoint and remove the Prime Minister or Cabinet ministers at their discretion.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: The removal of the President is constitutionally difficult to ensure stability. It cannot be done by a simple majority. Impeachment requires a resolution passed by at least two-thirds of the total number of Members of Parliament, often involving judicial review by the Supreme Court.
Key Takeaway:
The Sri Lankan Executive Presidency is characterized by a directly elected President who holds centralized executive power and is protected from removal by a stringent two-thirds majority requirement in Parliament.