Residents of the Central Province have expressed mounting frustration over delays in public services caused by the month-long leave of Governor Prof. Sarath Abeykoon, who is absent from December 7 to January 1. Prof. Abeykoon, a former Vice-Chancellor appointed by the current government, oversees crucial administrative functions in the province.
The Governor’s Office confirmed that during his absence, the Governor of the Eastern Province has been designated as acting Governor. However, citizens report that the acting Governor has made only occasional visits to the Central Province, leaving a leadership vacuum in critical areas such as provincial council ministries, local government institutions, and services under the Provincial Ministry of Education.
The responsibilities of the Central Provincial Governor encompass the districts of Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya, with direct oversight of institutions providing public services under the provincial council. Residents who depend on these services have voiced concerns about delays in tasks requiring the Governor’s approval or intervention.
Services related to education, local governance, and other public welfare activities have been particularly affected. Residents say they have struggled to access routine administrative services, including resolving local government issues, obtaining permits, and addressing grievances.
Many residents have taken their grievances to government officials, ministers, and MPs, urging immediate action to resolve the leadership vacuum. Critics argue that the Governor’s leave comes at a critical juncture for the new government, which had promised streamlined governance and efficiency.
Local leaders and civil society groups have pointed out that the absence of an active Governor undermines public trust in the administration. “The timing of this leave raises questions about the Governor’s commitment to addressing pressing local issues. The acting Governor’s limited presence has only added to the public’s frustration,” said a local activist.
The Central Provincial Governor plays a pivotal role in coordinating with provincial council authorities and ensuring smooth public service delivery. With the current government still in its initial stages, citizens expected a more proactive approach to governance.
Residents also highlight that while temporary arrangements have been made, the lack of a permanent presence has disrupted essential services. The Governor’s absence has particularly inconvenienced those seeking immediate decisions on administrative or policy matters.
So far, there has been no official response from the government addressing the public’s concerns or explaining the Governor’s extended absence. Many are calling for clearer protocols to ensure uninterrupted services during such situations.
As the leave period nears its conclusion, public pressure is mounting for both the Governor and the government to address these issues and restore normalcy to the provincial administration. The incident has also sparked broader discussions about accountability and continuity in public service roles.
