Colombo, September 9: Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court has cleared the way for a bill seeking to withdraw privileges granted to former presidents and their widows, ruling that it can be passed in Parliament with a simple majority.
Speaker Jagath Wickremaratna announced the court’s decision in Parliament on Tuesday, stating:
“The Supreme Court has determined that no provision of the bill is inconsistent with any part of the Constitution and can be enacted by Parliament with a simple majority.”
Bill Aims to End Costly Perks
The proposed legislation aims to reduce state expenditure by ending benefits such as:
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Official residences
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Personal staff
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Security details
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Vehicle allowances
The move comes amid Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts following last year’s financial crisis and growing public criticism over excessive state spending on former leaders.
With the Supreme Court’s green light, Parliament is expected to take up the bill for debate and vote in the coming days. If approved, it will mark a major shift in post-presidency entitlements in the country.