COLOMBO, Dec 8: A panel of constitutional experts, appointed by President Mahinda Rajapakse to look into the formulation of a political solution to end the Tamil ethnic conflict, has recommended maximum devolution of power to all regions of Sri Lanka, including LTTE-held areas in the north and east, political sources said.

It has also been recommended that two vice-presidents from ethnic communities other than that of the country’s president be appointed, well-informed sources confirmed.

The report by the panel was submitted to President Rajapakse on Friday.

The group recommends that in the Constitution, Sri Lanka be termed “one, free, sovereign and independent state,” and the use of distinctive expressions, such as unitary, federal be avoided.

It also recommends the strengthening of the right of every constituent people to develop their own language and culture, and preserve their history and the right to their due share of state power, including representation in institutions.