report in The Morning, Nov 30, 2022
Following a recommendation by Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Chairman, independent Opposition MP, and former President Maithripala Sirisena concerning the possibility of devolving governmental power below the Provincial Council (PC) level through District Development Councils using the existing District Co-ordinating Committees, President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that he was prepared to introduce the same.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday (29), Sirisena proposed the introduction of District Development Councils to devolve further power below the PC level. He emphasised that the existing District Co-ordinating Committees can be used to formulate the District Development Councils, and to constitutionally provide for District Development Councils to be empowered.
“We don’t have to spend a cent more. There is no need to pay salaries to more Ministers, there is no necessity to provide vehicles, or to hold elections again. We must look for new ways to do things.”
In response, President Wickremesinghe stated: “I am ready to introduce the District Development Councils. We will discuss this.”
Sirisena assured the SLFP’s fullest support to the President in implementing the District Development Councils.
https://www.themorning.lk/ranil-agrees-to-sirisenas-power-devolution-proposal/
