Cabinet approves move to gazette draft bill to curb entitlements for ex-Presidents

Wednesday, 23 July 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says bill aims to reduce special privileges granted to former Presidents and their families
Clarifies reforms are not directed at any specific former President, including Mahinda Rajapaksa
Notes reforms seek to balance genuine security needs with prudent public spending
Says amend to laws to abolish lifetime pensions for MPs will be next

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved publishing the draft bill to amend the Presidents’ Entitlements Act No. 4 of 1986, in the Government Gazette and subsequently presenting the same to the Parliament for its approval.

This development follows Cabinet approval on 16 June to repeal both the Presidents’ Entitlements Act and the Parliamentary Pensions Law No. 1 of 1977 (https://www.ft.lk/top-story/Cabinet-clears-to-scrap-pensions-for-MPs-special-benefits-for-ex-Presidents/26-777876).

The move aligns with the Government’s reform-oriented policy agenda, “Pohosath Ratak – Lassana Jeewithayak” (“A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life”), which the administration says reflects public support for eliminating excessive political entitlements.

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the amendment bill of Presidents’ Entitlements (Repeal) Act drafted by the Legal Draftsman has received the clearance from the Attorney General.

He said the amendment to the Act will curtail the special privileges historically granted to former Presidents and their families

Dr.Jayatissa also clarified that the changes are not targeted at any individual former President. “The Government remains responsible for ensuring the security of all citizens, including former Presidents. There is a Court ruling concerning the security of a former President and all such legal and practical considerations have been taken into account when drafting this bill,” he said, responding to questions specifically referencing former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Dr. Jayatissa also noted that the original 1986 legislation introduced under late President J.R. Jayewardene had clear provisions related to security, housing and other benefits for former Presidents.

However, he noted that current reforms seek to strike a balance between legitimate security needs and the responsible use of public funds.

The Cabinet Spokesman also added that cancelling the pension of the MPs will be the next amendment. This will include reforms to abolish lifetime pensions for MPs, which they currently receive after five years of service.

The proposal to this effect submitted by Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.