Executive Presidency to Be Abolished; Cabinet Spokesman

10-Sep-2025

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The executive presidency will be abolished, and steps in this regard will be included in the constitutional amendment. Work will commence once the economy is stabilized. 

The bill to remove privileges granted to former presidents was not specifically aimed at Mahinda Rajapaksa but applies to all retired presidents, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

Speaking at the press conference held at the Government Information Department, Colombo, on September 9, he further said:

"The abolition of the executive presidency was clearly mentioned in the manifesto presented during the last presidential election. The people have mandated us to take a decision on this matter through constitutional amendment. However, we have not yet initiated constitutional reform.

There is no issue in taking some time for this process. Only one year has passed since the President assumed office, and only ten months since the government was formed. Many Cabinet papers relating to development have already been submitted. Our first goal is to stabilize the economy.

The economy must be stabilized and people’s livelihoods uplifted. At the same time, the government is cracking down on corruption and fraud and is regaining international confidence. Constitutional reform measures will also commence soon.

Based on this, the bill to abolish privileges for former executive presidents has been presented. The burden on the Treasury from these privileges and the resulting increase in indirect taxes are reasons why the public demand the abolition of the executive presidency.

Therefore, this bill has been submitted. Although some have challenged it in court, the Supreme Court has ruled that it can be passed with a simple majority. We expect all members of Parliament to vote in favor.

We believe there is no reason for the opposition to argue that the Treasury should continue bearing a heavy burden for retired presidents’ privileges. Their stance will become clear at the time of voting. This bill is not aimed solely at former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Once enacted, all former presidents will be required to comply accordingly", the Minister added.