The correct option is The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Explanation
Sri Lanka follows a
Semi-Preside (introduced in 1978), which combines features of both presidential and parliamentary systems. Unlike a purely parliamentary system where the President is a ceremonial head, the President in a semi-presidential system possesses significant executive authority.
Statement-wise Analysis
- The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.: Correct. Under the 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka, the President is explicitly designated as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The President retains control over the defense portfolio and has the authority to declare war and peace.
- Elected by the Parliament.: Incorrect. The President of Sri Lanka is directly elected by the people for a fixed term, not by the Parliament. This direct mandate is a hallmark of the executive presidency.
- Only the Head of State, not the Head of Government.: Incorrect. In the Sri Lankan system, the President is both the Head of State and the Head of Government. This differs from a standard parliamentary system (like India) where the President is the Head of State and the Prime Minister is the Head of Government.
- Subject to removal by the Prime Minister.: Incorrect. The President is not subject to removal by the Prime Minister. On the contrary, the President appoints the Prime Minister from the Parliament. The removal of the President requires a complex impeachment process involving the Parliament and the Supreme Court, not a simple decision by the Prime Minister.
Key Takeaway
In Sri Lanka's Semi-Presidential system, the President is directly elected and holds supreme executive power, serving simultaneously as the
Head of State, Head of Government, and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.