Appointment of New IGP Further Delayed: Police Chief CD Wickramaratne Granted Fourth Service Extension by President

November 03, 2023

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has granted Inspector General of Police CD Wickramaratne another service extension, marking the fourth time he has received such an extension during his tenure. The decision comes on the heels of previous service extensions, including two for three months each and a more recent three-week extension.

The three-week service extension, which concluded on November 2, has drawn attention to the issue of extending the tenure of the Inspector General of Police.

The Constitutional Council had previously expressed concerns about the recurrent service extensions, urging the appointment of a new Inspector General of Police to ensure the smooth transition of leadership within the police force.

While the recurring extensions have sparked discussions about the appointment of a new Inspector General, it also highlights the need for comprehensive strategies to address the leadership transition in the law enforcement sector.