The decision was taken earlier in the day at a special cabinet meeting chaired by president Maithripala Sirisena.

Two more proposed amendments, including one on electoral reforms, will be discussed further at the party leaders’ meeting on Tuesday.

The gazette notification will be tabled in parliament, debated and adopted according to normal procedures, not as an urgent bill.

According to the amendments, the president will lose powers to dissolve parliament one year after its election, and parliament cannot be dissolved until four years pass.

Also, the post of presidency cannot be held for more than two times, while independent commissions will be appointed as well.

The president will retain positions as the commander in chief of the armed forces, head of the cabinet and the powers to appoint members to the cabinet.

Powers will be withdrawn from the president to dissolve parliament, while it is reported that the immunity from prosecution will also be removed.