A growing list of departures from state institutions fuels concerns over political pressure, bureaucratic paralysis, and the long-term stability of Sri Lanka’s public administration.
Just yesterday, the chairmen of SriLankan Airlines and Lanka Sugar stepped down, adding to a widening resignation wave within the Anura Kumara Dissanayake administration. In the eighteen months since this government assumed office, more than 25 chairmen and institutional secretaries, all appointed during its tenure, have resigned. The pattern has intensified debate about governance standards, political interference, and institutional stability.
(Excerpt)
“During my tenure, there were several occasions when the Company was presented with requests and expectations that required violating relevant circulars, regulations and established legal procedures. In such cases, the Board of Directors, the CEO and I, being strictly bound by our statutory and fiduciary obligations, were unable to agree to such requests.
Unfortunately, this stance led to increased conflicts with certain provincial politicians. Despite our repeated and sincere attempts to explain the legal and regulatory constraints within which the Company operates, those explanations were not accepted. The continuous pressure from provincial politicians to act contrary to the law, regulations and government circulars has made it increasingly difficult for me to perform my duties in accordance with good governance and corporate integrity.
Under these circumstances, in the best interests of the Company and in accordance with my professional ethics, since I am unable to perform my duties in accordance with the Dharma, I believe it is appropriate and necessary to resign from this position.”
(End of quote)
The above is the Sinhala translation of the resignation letter of Mrs. Sandamali Jayasekara, former Chairperson of C/S Lanka Sugar Pvt Ltd. Observers argue her explanation reflects a broader administrative strain across the state sector.
Critics point to alleged micromanagement by inexperienced ministers and mounting political pressure as key drivers behind the exodus. They claim institutional protocol and bureaucratic independence are being eroded, weakening decision making structures essential for effective governance.
Administrative hesitation was evident during Cyclone Ditwah, when officials reportedly avoided acting beyond circulars even amid emergency conditions. The remand of veteran administrator Saman Ekanayake, who served 37 years including as Presidential Secretary, is cited as another factor creating fear within the public service.
Additional controversies involving customs operations and prison administration have reinforced perceptions that responsibility is frequently shifted onto career officials. Analysts warn that the steady departure of experienced professionals, from Grama Seva Niladhari officers to ministry secretaries, represents a significant loss of institutional knowledge.
While government sources highlight internal surveys suggesting rising popularity, critics argue the ground reality reflects frustration within the bureaucracy. The resignation trend, they say, signals deeper governance tensions within Sri Lanka’s public administration landscape.
