Cabinet clears to scrap pensions for MPs, special benefits for ex-Presidents

Wednesday, 18 June 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa

Directs Legal Draftsman to formulate two bills to repeal lifetime pensions for MPs and cancel special entitlements for former Presidents and their families
Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says decision reflects public demand for accountability and reduced wasteful spending
Reforms aim to end pensions after just five years of MP service and cut taxpayer-funded perks like housing, vehicles, and staff for ex-Presidents

By Charumini de Silva

In a bid to encourage political accountability and reduce State expenditure, the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved a draft legislation to repeal pensions for Members of Parliament and cancel special entitlements for former Presidents and their families.

It was decided to instruct the Legal Draftsman to formulate two separate bills to curtail the special privileges historically granted to former Presidents and their families as well as cancelling the pension of the MPs.

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting by media briefing yesterday Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the move is in line with the Government’s broader policy vision titled ‘Pohosath Ratak – Lassana Jeewithayak’ (A Wealthy Country – A Beautiful Life), which was presented to the public as part of the Government’s mandate.

He said the decision reflects the people’s will. “People voted for this Government to repeal the excessive and unjustified benefits previously granted to former Presidents and MPs,” he added.

Dr. Jayatissa clarified that while certain entitlements to former Presidents are noted in the Constitution, the majority of privileges including pensions and logistical benefits are provided through ordinary legislation. “What we are proposing now is an amendment to the Acts governing these benefits considering the country’s overall economic situation and public spending,” he added.

He said once enacted the reforms would abolish lifetime pensions for MPs, which they currently receive after five years of service and withdraw perks for former Presidents and their families, which include housing, vehicles, staff and other allowances funded by the taxpayers.