In light of the upcoming Presidential Election, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has decided not to intervene in the matter of appointing an Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP). His legal team has advised that frequent changes in the IGP position, such as appointing an Acting IGP every two weeks, could potentially lead to election petitions against him.
Sources indicate that the President has communicated his decision to the Speaker of Parliament, opting to avoid involvement in this issue.
Today, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena is set to address Parliament with an official statement regarding the government’s stance on the Supreme Court’s decision related to the IGP position.
The Supreme Court recently issued an interim order prohibiting Deshabandu Tennakoon from carrying out duties as the IGP. This order follows nine petitions challenging Tennakoon’s appointment, including one filed by Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith. The Court has also mandated that President Wickremesinghe appoint a suitable replacement for Tennakoon during the interim period.
An urgent Cabinet meeting was convened on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, to discuss the Supreme Court’s decision. The Cabinet agreed that further legal analysis was required before formulating a response. Consequently, a formal announcement regarding the Cabinet’s position will be made within the next two days.
