WCIC raises concern over resignation of NCW Chairperson

Tuesday, 3 February 2026 04:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cautions against rollback on women’s rights after Commission Chair steps down

Ramani Jayasundara

The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) has expressed concern over the resignation of Ramani Jayasundara, Chairperson of Sri Lanka’s inaugural National Commission on Women (NCW), urging the Government to safeguard the progress made on women’s rights and representation.

In a statement, the WCIC said it had welcomed the establishment of the Commission, which was mandated to address gender-based violence, provide legal aid, and ensure women’s participation in decision-making, and had anticipated constructive engagement on broader structural issues.

“Having rejoiced with the establishment of a specific commission which was tasked with addressing gender-based violence, providing legal aid, and ensuring women’s participation in decision-making, we were looking forward to meaningful engagements on issues of relevance to address the low economic participation of women in the country,” the Chamber said.

The WCIC called on the Government to not take a step back from the progressive steps taken and consider the reasons to ensure an effective, viable Commission.

“We urge the Government to take adequate steps to provide the necessary resources and power to take the Commission’s agenda forward and bring back the trust,” the Chamber said.