"There is No IGP in the Country": Parliament Debate Erupts Over IGP's Service Extension without Constitutional Council's Approval

November 08, 2023

A heated debate unfolded in the Sri Lankan Parliament today as Colombo District Member Wimal Weerawansa raised concerns over the appointment of the Inspector General of Police. Weerawansa's assertion that the Constitutional Council had not approved the extension of the Inspector General's service sparked a contentious discussion in the legislative body.

During the parliamentary session on November 8th, Weerawansa contended that without the Constitutional Council's approval for the extension of the Inspector General's service, there is currently no Inspector General of Police in the country. He went on to express his belief that this situation had led to a lack of law and order, characterizing the state of the police force as anarchic.

Addressing Minister of Public Security Tiran Alas, Weerawansa emphasized the importance of not compromising the country's law and order. He raised questions about the process of extending the service of the Inspector General of Police without the necessary approval from the Constitutional Council, which he considered a significant constitutional concern.

Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapaksa intervened in the discussion, asserting that the appointment had been made by the President. Weerawansa, however, challenged this statement, stating that the Deputy Speaker was not a representative of the President and urged him not to speak on the President's behalf.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena also contributed to the debate, stating that the Speaker would provide clarification on the matter. He defended the President's authority to make such appointments, emphasizing that the Constituent Assembly was working towards a clear decision regarding this issue.

Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa concurred with Weerawansa's stance, asserting that the Constituent Assembly had not approved the service extension for the Inspector General of Police for the third time. He suggested seeking input from other members of the assembly to address this issue.

Weerawansa reiterated his concern about the lack of a regular Inspector General of Police in the country and the potential implications of this situation on law and order. He urged authorities not to compromise the critical aspect of maintaining law and order in the nation.