In a move to reassess the benefits provided to former presidents, a committee appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has asked ex-leaders to submit written statements justifying their privileges. The three-member committee, led by retired Supreme Court Judge K.T. Chitrasiri, was formed to review existing ordinances concerning the entitlements of ministers, MPs, and former presidents.
The committee’s mandate includes scrutinizing the number of staff, security personnel, and vehicles allocated for the security of retired presidents, as well as rental costs for any buildings used for these purposes. The privileges under review include pensions, official residences, fuel for three vehicles, and remuneration for a private secretary. However, past arrangements often extended to covering additional expenses, such as utility bills.
Reports show that maintaining the lifestyles of former presidents Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, Mahinda Rajapaksa, Maithripala Sirisena, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and Mrs. Hema Premadasa, widow of Ranasinghe Premadasa, has cost the government approximately Rs 270 million over the last three years. Spending on their maintenance has increased significantly, growing by 45% from 2022 to 2024, with an expenditure of Rs 110million expected this year alone.
The report from this committee will be presented to the cabinet, potentially leading to reforms in the allowances and privileges currently granted to former leaders. Minister Vijitha Herath indicated that any decisions taken would be based on the committee’s findings, setting the stage for a possible overhaul of the benefits afforded to Sri Lanka’s ex-presidents.
