Eraj Fernando, former Chairman of Hambantota Urban Council which rose to fame for wielding a toy pistol a few years ago, became the head of the Local Government body again. 

Fernando, who contested this time under the United Freedom People's Alliance (UPFA) under the leadership of President Sirisena, became the new Chairman of the council with the support of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna. 

Although the UNP held the highest number of seats at the council, the opposition parties showed a majority support when it came to the appointment of the head of the council.

Fernando came under severe criticism for attacking UNP MPs who visited the Mattala Airport for a fact-finding tour, under the previous administration.