Colombo – In a landmark decision, the Sri Lankan cabinet has approved a proposal to abolish several key privileges enjoyed by Members of Parliament (MPs), including duty-free vehicle licenses, pensions, and other allowances. This significant move was endorsed during President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s first cabinet meeting, which was held at the Presidential Secretariat on September 30.
As part of the decision, a special committee will be appointed to provide recommendations on the process of eliminating these benefits, which have long been a point of contention among the public. The committee will address the cancellation of duty-free vehicle licenses, MPs’ pensions, and the Rs. 100,000 office allowance, among other perks.
The first step taken by the cabinet is the immediate cancellation of existing circulars that had authorized these privileges. This represents a key shift in the new administration’s approach to cutting unnecessary expenses and promoting transparency.
In addition, the proposal also includes plans to remove privileges granted to former presidents and their spouses. However, the final decision on some of these benefits will require approval from Parliament, as certain legal provisions are involved.
This move aligns with President Dissanayake’s broader agenda of reforming Sri Lanka’s political culture and cutting down on excessive governmental expenditures. The decision has been widely welcomed by those advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources and reduced political entitlements.
Well done Mr President. 👏🏽👏🏽
You deliver what you promised. This is a very good step in the right direction in minimizing wastage ( and corruption)
Salute you 🫡
Retain executive presidency until you deliver rest of the promises and abolish it at the last.
Excellent work ,Mr President .
Thank you saving our economy from unnecessary expenses