The National Advisory Committee has still not been appointed by the national unity government despite its assurance to set up the committee on January 12.

President Maithripala Sirisena, in 100 day programme, has pledged to appoint the National Advisory Committee on January 12, a day after the appointment of the new cabinet.

The appointment of the new Cabinet was also delayed by one day – probably due to last minute defections from the United People’s Freedom Alliance.

However, no explanation has so far been given by the government as to why the appointment of National Advisory Committee has been delayed.

The National Advisory Committee will have the representation of all political parties in the Parliament and it is expected to operate above the cabinet. The NAC can also be construed as the body which gives the present government the characteristics of a national government.

Both the JvP and the TNA – two parties that did not accept ministerial portfolios under the national unity government – have expressed willingness to take part in the National Advisory Committee.