Anura Meter an online tracker that monitors the progress of selected promises made in the 2024 presidential election manifesto of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The 30 promises selected for tracking focus on proposals considered to be of high public interest and important in relation to economic reforms, governance, anti-corruption, law and order, and social protection. The progress of these promises will be updated as and when we receive information from the government or other relevant sources. Assessment as of 11 November 2025. Email [email protected] or click on the "Contribute Information" button on the banner to support the tracker.
Progress out of 30
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Met
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Rs. 10,000 monthly financial grant for low-income families
Social Protection
The Aswesuma programme, launched under the previous administration, is continued by the NPP government with an increased minimum monthly payment for low income families from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000......
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The Aswesuma programme, launched under the previous administration, is continued by the NPP government with an increased minimum monthly payment for low income families from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000.
Amendments introduced through the Extraordinary Gazette of 24 March 2025, and approved by Parliament on 9 April 2025, revised the grant amounts as follows:
A. "Poor" beneficiaries: Rs. 10,000 per month (increased from Rs. 8,500)
B. "Very poor" beneficiaries: Rs. 17,500 per month (increased from Rs. 15,000)Schemes A and B will operate from January 2025 to June 2027. Starting from 12 September 2025, the beneficiaries receive the allowance to their bank accounts, and 1,412,574 families receive the payment. November payments have been disbursed.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 151.3 billion has been allocated as a cash grant for low income families under the Aswesuma Programme, continuing the allocation made in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates of Rs. 159.3 billion.
Source/s:
1. https://wbb.gov.lk/backend/assets/publications/web/procurement_notices/TOR_SS_Risk_Asmt.pdf
2. https://www.documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2022/10/2302-23_E.pdf
3. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=12909
4. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1738229262040729.pdf
5. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/3/2429-02_E.pdf
6. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1747807095041246.pdf
7. https://wbb.gov.lk/
8. https://hirunews.lk/en/430303/aswesuma-payments-to-be-disbursed-tomorrow
9. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026
10. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/12/2467-03_E.pdfMet
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Remove tax-free vehicle permits for MPs
Governance
The Government suspended the importation and Customs release of vehicles under concessionary permits......
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Removing the tax-free vehicle permits for MPsProgress Description
The Government suspended the importation and Customs release of vehicles under concessionary permits. Media reports stated that the issuance of vehicle permits to MPs had been suspended, though no official government records confirm this.
In a press release dated 31 January 2025, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development announced that the importation and Customs release of any motor vehicle under concessionary motor vehicle import permits will no longer be permitted.
On 17 February 2025, during the Budget Speech delivered in Parliament, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that Members of Parliament would not be provided with vehicle permits or vehicles for the year. However, the official written version of the Budget Speech only refers to the auctioning of luxury vehicles with high running and maintenance costs; it does not explicitly mention the suspension of MPs’ vehicle permits.
Subsequently, media reports cited the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs as confirming that the issuance of vehicle permits to MPs has been suspended. To date, however, no official government documents have been published to substantiate these claims.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, stated, "The government's current fleet of vehicles and machinery is inadequate and a significant portion of the existing vehicles and machinery are obsolete, resulting in substantial expenditures on repairs and maintenance. This situation has become a significant obstacle to the continuation of the development activities that the government is expected to achieve. Considering this situation, the government has decided to purchase a number of vehicles and machinery essential for government institutions, as well as vehicles to be provided on the basis of return after the end of the parliamentary members' term. For this purpose, it is proposed to allocate a total of Rs. 12,500 million as the primary requirement."
Source/s:
1. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/be95c846-5f8e-4d45-81cc-e64580778621
2. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/96100697-0492-4c66-b2a2-71aeafa23404
3. https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Govt-rules-out-vehicle-permits-for-MPs/44-772708
4. https://www.onlanka.com/news/sri-lanka-to-scrap-mps-pensions-suspend-vehicle-permits.html
5. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026Met
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Hold Local Government elections within one year
Governance
Local Government elections were held on 6 May 2025 to elect councillors for 339 of the country’s 341 local authorities......
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Local government elections which are currently postponed indefinitely, will be held within a year to provide an opportunity for the people to join the governanceProgress Description
Local Government elections were held on 6 May 2025 to elect councillors for 339 of the country’s 341 local authorities.
The local authorities where elections were held include 28 municipal councils, 36 urban councils, and 275 pradeshiya sabhas. The Kalmunai Municipal Council was excluded due to ongoing legal proceedings, while the Elpitiya Pradeshiya Sabha was excluded as its election had been held on 26 October 2024.
Source/s:
1. https://results.elections.gov.lk/Met
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Provide comprehensive information on the operations of SOEs
Governance
This promise is interpreted as the public release of financial statements for the 52 key SOEs......
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Provide the public with access to comprehensive information on the operations of SOEs to ensure transparencyProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as the public release of financial statements for the 52 key SOEs.
Before the current administration, no financial statements until 2024 had been published. They were subsequently published.
For the year 2023: All 52 key SOE statements were released. Only five statements are left to be audited.
For the year 2024: All 52 key SOE statements have been published. Of these, 14 are currently unaudited.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, stated, "A new 'Public Commercial Business Management Act' is to be introduced for State-Owned Enterprises and the Bill is scheduled to be presented to this Parliament in the first half of 2026. It will clearly identify the objectives of State-Owned Enterprises, publish annual audited accounts, and limit borrowing for appropriate purposes."
Source/s:
1. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/annual-reports-financial-statements-of-key-soes
2. https://web.archive.org/web/20241008025343/https:/www.treasury.gov.lk/web/annual-reports-financial-statements-of-key-soes
3. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/0cbd85ce-0f8c-4a10-af3f-03bd0ae59e99Met
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Rs. 10,000 monthly financial aid for persons with disabilities from low income families
Social Protection
A monthly payment of Rs. 10,000 is given for persons with disabilities in low-income families......
Read MoreExact Promise
Provision of a monthly financial aid of Rs. 10,000 to persons with disabilities in low-income familiesProgress Description
A monthly payment of Rs. 10,000 is given for persons with disabilities in low-income families.
On 9 April 2025, Parliament approved the Extraordinary Gazette (No.2429/02) issued on 24 March 2025 for increments and changes in the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme. Under the approved Extraordinary Gazette, a projected 310,000 beneficiaries are scheduled to receive a monthly financial grant of Rs. 10,000, an increase from the previous Rs. 7,500. The scheme is planned to run from April 2025 to December 2026. November payments have been disbursed.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, confirmed its implementation, stating, "Rs. 19,000 million has already been allocated to provide a subsidy of Rs. 10,000 each to about 140,000 persons with disabilities through the Aswesuma programme." The President further mentioned two additional social welfare programmes: one to provide Rs. 5,000 per month for each child with disabilities from low-income families to attend school, and another to support those pursuing higher education.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 19 billion has been allocated as a cash grant for low income persons with disabilities under the Aswesuma Programme, continuing the allocation made in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates of Rs. 28.4 billion.
Source/s:
1. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/3/2429-02_E.pdf
2. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1747807095041246.pdf
3. https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/099042525132039006/pdf/P178973-92547558-717e-48f9-9dc7-92f7a9daf0c3.pdf
4. https://nspd.gov.lk/index.php/services/25-services-english/117-rs-5000-monthly-living-assistance-for-disabled-persons-2
5. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/0cbd85ce-0f8c-4a10-af3f-03bd0ae59e99
6. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026
7. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/12/2467-03_E.pdfMet
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Rs. 10,000 monthly financial grant for persons with chronic illnesses based on need
Social Protection
The monthly payment for chronic kidney disease patients was increased from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000......
Read MoreExact Promise
A minimum monthly financial grant of Rs. 10,000 to persons with chronic illnesses on a needs basisProgress Description
The monthly payment for chronic kidney disease patients was increased from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000.
On 9 April 2025, Parliament approved the Extraordinary Gazette (No.2429/02) issued on 24 March 2025 with increments and changes in the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme. This Extraordinary Gazette increases the financial grant for target patients with chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDU). Under the approved gazette, a projected 50,000 beneficiaries are scheduled to receive a monthly financial grant of Rs. 10,000, an increase from the previous Rs. 7,500. The scheme is scheduled to operate from April 2025 to December 2026.
The National Secretariat for Persons with Disabilities confirms the implementation, with 39,169 beneficiaries currently receiving the benefit. November payments have been disbursed.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 6.3 billion has been allocated as a cash grant for chronic kidney patients under the Aswesuma Programme, continuing the allocation made in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates of Rs. 4.5 billion.
Source/s:
1. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/3/2429-02_E.pdf
2. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1747807095041246.pdf
3. https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/099042525132039006/pdf/P178973-92547558-717e-48f9-9dc7-92f7a9daf0c3.pdf
4. https://nspd.gov.lk/index.php/services/25-services-english/16-rs-5000-monthly-living-assistance-for-kidney-patients
5. https://srilankamirror.com/news/october-aswesuma-payments-to-be-credited-today/
6. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026
7. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/12/2467-03_E.pdfMet
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Rs. 5,000 monthly allowance for senior citizens based on need
Social Protection
The monthly payment for senior citizens was increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000......
Read MoreExact Promise
Providing a monthly allowance of Rs. 5,000 to senior citizens needing assistanceProgress Description
The monthly payment for senior citizens was increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000.
On 9 April 2025, Parliament approved the Extraordinary Gazette (No.2429/02) issued on 24 March 2025 for increments and changes in the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme. This extraordinary gazette raises the financial grant from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 for eligible senior citizens. Eligible beneficiaries are individuals aged 70 and above who belong to families on the Aswesuma registry. The increased payments are scheduled to operate for the period from April 2025 to December 2026.
As of 26 September 2025, the Welfare Benefits Board has formally notified eligible senior citizens. The Rs. 5,000 allowance is being deposited directly into their Aswesuma-linked bank accounts. November payments have been disbursed.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 54.2 billion has been allocated as a cash grant for low income elderly persons over 70 years of age under the Aswesuma Programme, increasing the allocation made in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates of Rs. 37.4 billion. The separate allocation of Rs. 30 million in 2025 for elderly persons over 100 years of age, has been discontinued.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13080
2. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/3/2429-02_E.pdf
3. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1747807095041246.pdf
4. https://wbb.gov.lk/
5. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026
6. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/12/2467-03_E.pdfMet
* Met with Revision
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
The government will have not more than 25 cabinet ministers, and not more than 50 ministers in total
Governance
This promise is interpreted as the steps taken to keep the total number of Ministers well under the limit mandated by the Constitution......
Read MoreExact Promise
Appointing 25 ministers and corresponding deputy ministers to 25 logically determined ministries and abolishing State Ministerial postsProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as the steps taken to keep the total number of Ministers well under the limit mandated by the Constitution.
Under Article 47 of the Constitution, Cabinet Ministers are limited to 30 and non-Cabinet Ministers to 40, with a maximum of 70 overall. Following the November 2024 elections, 22 Cabinet and 28 Deputy Ministers were appointed, bringing the total to 50. The appointments on 10 October 2025 raised the number of Cabinet Ministers to 23, still within the promised cap of 25, while the number of Deputy Ministers increased to 32, bringing the total to 55.
Source/s:
1. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/acts/gbills/english/6176.pdf
2. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12&Itemid=18&lang=en
3. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=26&Itemid=24&lang=enMet
* Met with Revision
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Establish a fixed deposit interest rate that is 5% higher than normal bank rates for senior citizens
Economic Reforms
Senior citizens over the age of 60 receive an additional 3% interest on fixed deposits of up to Rs. 1 million with a 12-month tenure, available only until 31 December 2025......
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An interest rate that is 5% higher than the normal bank rate(s) for senior citizens' fixed depositsProgress Description
Senior citizens over the age of 60 receive an additional 3% interest on fixed deposits of up to Rs. 1 million with a 12-month tenure, available only until 31 December 2025.
A cabinet decision dated 16 June 2025 introduced the Special Interest Scheme for Senior Citizens 2025, effective from 1 July to 31 December 2025. The scheme provides Sri Lankan citizens aged 60 and above an additional 3% annual interest on fixed deposits, capped at LKR 1 million with a 12-month tenure. Eligibility requires proof of a monthly income below LKR 150,000 and confirmation that the deposited funds are personal savings. The government’s implementation of the scheme can be observed through the higher interest rates offered under the Special Fixed Deposit Scheme compared to regular senior citizens’ fixed deposits. The following bank-level data illustrates this difference:
BOC:
• Special Scheme: 11.46% monthly |12.08% annually
• Regular FD: 7.00% monthly | 7.25% at maturityPeople’s Bank:
• Special Scheme: 11.46% monthly
• Regular FD: 6.50% monthly | 6.75% at maturitySeylan Bank:
• Special Scheme: 11.46% monthly | 12.08% annually
• Regular FD: 6.50% monthly | 7.00% at maturityHatton National Bank:
• Special Scheme: 11.46% monthly
• Regular FD: 7.00% monthly | 7.25% at maturityCommercial Bank:
• Special Scheme: 11.46% monthly
• Regular FD: 7.25% monthly | 7.50% at maturityIn the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 10 billion has been allocated to the special interest scheme for senior citizens, in contrast to the Rs. 25 billion allocated in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13249
2. https://www.news.lk/current-affairs/implementation-of-the-special-interest-scheme-for-senior-citizens
3. https://www.boc.lk/rates-tariff#rupee-deposit-rates
4. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026Met
* Met with Revision
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Raise the annual income tax threshold to Rs. 2.4 million
Economic Reforms
The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act No. 02 of 2025, effective 1 April 2025, raises the annual tax-free threshold from Rs. 1.2 million to Rs. 1.8 million......
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Amendment of the PAYE tax and increase the annual tax threshold for individual income tax from Rs. 1.2 million to Rs. 2.4 million and revise the tax rates and tax brackets on a fair basisProgress Description
The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act No. 02 of 2025, effective 1 April 2025, raises the annual tax-free threshold from Rs. 1.2 million to Rs. 1.8 million.
The above translates to an increase in the monthly tax-free threshold from Rs. 100,000 to 150,000.
Source/s:
1. https://documents.gov.lk/view/acts/2025/3/02-2025_E.pdfIn Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Salary increase for upcountry plantation workers compared to cost of living
Social Protection
Proposed increase of the minimum daily wage of estate workers from Rs. 1,350 to Rs. 1,550 from January 2026, along with a Rs. 200 daily attendance incentive from the government......
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Increase the salaries of the upcountry plantation workers compared to the cost of livingProgress Description
Proposed increase of the minimum daily wage of estate workers from Rs. 1,350 to Rs. 1,550 from January 2026, along with a Rs. 200 daily attendance incentive from the government. Since this is a proposal in the Budget which is yet to be passed, and the implementation is set to be in January 2026, this promise is marked as "in progress".
On 13 October 2025, a special discussion was held between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and representatives of plantation companies regarding the proposed increase in estate workers’ daily wages.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, stated, "It is our position that estate workers should be paid a fair daily wage commensurate with their service. It is proposed to increase the current minimum daily wage of Rs. 1,350 to Rs. 1,550 from January 2026. Furthermore, in addition to the salary of Rs. 1,550, it is proposed to pay Rs. 200 as a daily attendance incentive by the government. It is proposed to allocate Rs. 5 billion for this purpose."
Source/s:
1. https://www.news.lk/current-affairs/special-discussion-on-increasing-estate-workers-wages-presided-by-the-president
2. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/0cbd85ce-0f8c-4a10-af3f-03bd0ae59e99In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Creating housing schemes around estates
Social Protection
This promise is interpreted as the efforts made to increase estate housing and will stay “in progress” until the required housing numbers are clarified......
Read MoreExact Promise
Developing housing schemes in areas surrounding estatesProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as the efforts made to increase estate housing and will stay “in progress” until the required housing numbers are clarified. The government reported issuing deeds or entitlement documents for housing schemes benefiting Malaiyaga communities. It also expanded housing support through the India–Sri Lanka Plantation Housing Programme and made further budget allocations for estate housing initiatives.
On 12 October 2025, the government held an event in Bandarawela to issue documents for 2,000 units under the India–Sri Lanka Plantation Housing Programme (Phase 4 of the 10,000-house scheme). The housing entitlement certificates were issued by the government. However, some opposition MPs claim that the certificates distributed were "letters of intention", and not full legal deeds.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, stated, "Rs. 4,290 million has been allocated with the assistance of the Government of India, for the construction of 2,000 houses to upgrade the housing and infrastructure facilities of the Malaiyaga Estate workers living in Central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa, North Western and Southern Provinces." Two additional programmes under the Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure, have received allocations under the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, with Rs. 100 million for an estate housing programme and Rs. 60 million for an Indian grant assisted housing programme (Phase I).
On 28 February 2025, an RTI request was submitted to the Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure seeking details of any actions taken since 21 September 2024 regarding the allocation of lands for Malaiyaga communities, to construct permanent homes. The Ministry’s response, received on 07 April 2025, stated that the "deeds were handed over to 725 beneficiaries of houses constructed by the Ministry.”
Source/s:
1. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/96100697-0492-4c66-b2a2-71aeafa23404
2. https://www.news.lk/current-affairs/distribution-of-housing-entitlement-certificates-to-the-up-country-malayagam-community-tomorrow-in-bandarawela
3. https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/16/mano-accuses-govt-of-misleading-public-in-plantation-housing-project/
4. https://x.com/JeevanThondaman/status/1977001454058582307
5. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/0cbd85ce-0f8c-4a10-af3f-03bd0ae59e99
6. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Add 2,000MW of solar power to the national grid
Other
Construction of the 120 MW Sampur Solar Power Plant has begun, with Rs. 4 billion allocated for related transmission projects and Rs. 1.5 billion for rooftop solar initiatives in the 2026 budget......
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Adding 2,000 MW gradually into the national supply using solar powerProgress Description
Construction of the 120 MW Sampur Solar Power Plant has begun, with Rs. 4 billion allocated for related transmission projects and Rs. 1.5 billion for rooftop solar initiatives in the 2026 budget.
On 5 April 2025, the Presidential Media Division reported the start of construction on the Sampur Solar Power Plant, which will add 50MW to the national grid. A Cabinet decision dated 19 February 2025 confirmed a two-phase programme to construct Solar Power Plants at Sampur in Trincomalee, with 50 MW in Phase I and 70 MW in Phase II. The project summary uploaded by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which is providing a sovereign-backed loan to the Ministry of Finance to partly fund the project, further confirms that the entire project will supply up to 120 MW of solar power to the national grid.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 2 billion has been allocated for each of the Sampur-Kappalthurai and Habarana-Kappalthurai Transmission Development Projects conducted by the AIIB, totaling Rs. 4 billion. Additionally, Rs. 1.5 billion has been allocated for the rooftop solar aggregation and virtual net metering project for 2026.
Source/s:
1. https://pmd.gov.lk/news/president-and-indian-prime-minister-jointly-launch-and-inaugurate-three-development-projects/
2. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13039
3. https://www.aiib.org/en/projects/details/2025/proposed/sri-lanka-sampur-solar-pv-power-project-financing.html
4. https://www.aiib.org/en/projects/details/2025/_download/Sri-Lanka/PSI-P000799-Sri-Lanka-Sampur-Solar-PV-Power-Project-Financing.pdf
5. https://www.themorning.lk/articles/ny26tyvuQIODh0T805kk
6. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Provide 200 scholarships for high school graduates to pursue undergraduate degrees abroad
Other
200 scholarships for high school graduates to pursue undergraduate programmes at internationally ranked foreign universities over a five year period have been approved......
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Offer 200 scholarships per year for high school graduates to pursue degrees at internationally ranked universitiesProgress Description
200 scholarships for high school graduates to pursue undergraduate programmes at internationally ranked foreign universities over a five year period have been approved. Funds allocated in the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates. This is yet to be implemented.
On 1 July 2025, the Cabinet approved a scholarship programme for 200 top-performing G.C.E. Advanced Level students over five years to pursue bachelor’s degrees at internationally ranked foreign universities. The programme will be implemented in phases and will begin in 2025 with the selection of 20–50 students. The Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education has invited applications from students who sat the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level examination by 15 September 2025.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 400 million has been allocated for scholarships for undergraduate degree programmes at high ranking universities, whereas Rs. 200 million was allotted in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates. Additionally, Rs. 10 million has been allocated for scholarship programmes with other countries for 2026, compared with Rs. 20 million in 2025.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13268
2. https://www.dgi.gov.lk/images/2025/07/02/Cabinet_Decision_01.07.2025_English-page-001.jpg
3. https://mohe.gov.lk/images/pdf/200_English_web_notice.pdf
4. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Establish a Stolen Asset Recovery Agency
Anti-Corruption
A new Act was enacted to enable the seizure of assets deemed proceeds of crime, providing for a Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division and Proceeds of Crime Management Authority......
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Establishment of a stolen public asset recovery agency with the technical and advisory support of international organizations such as Stolen Asset Recovery (STAR) and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to recover the stolen state assetsProgress Description
A new Act was enacted to enable the seizure of assets deemed proceeds of crime, providing for a Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division and Proceeds of Crime Management Authority. Only the Division has been set up so far. This hinders on the full implementation of the Act, as the minimum threshold of assets that may be seized or judicially frozen, has to be determined by the Authority, together with the Police and CIABOC Designated Officers.
The Proceeds of Crime Act No. 05 of 2025, enacted on 30 April 2025, provides for the establishment of a Proceeds of Crime Management Authority (PCMA), Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division (PCID) and a Victims of Crime Reparation Trust Fund (VCRTF). The Act also expands the mandate of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) to act on proceeds of crime matters. The law was formally brought into effect through Extraordinary Gazette No. 2438/24 of 27 May 2025.
The Proceeds of Crime Investigation Division has been launched as at 20 October 2025. Further, CIABOC's unit to investigate allegations of money laundering is already established as of 2023.
There is currently no publicly available evidence to indicate that the Authority has been set up or has commenced operations.StAR and UNODC Support: Discussions between the Chairman of CIABOC, Justice Neil Iddawala, and senior officials from the World Bank and StAR in Vienna indicate the readiness of these international organisations to extend technical and advisory assistance. This includes assistance in areas such as electronic asset-tracing tools, and training for investigators.
Source/s:
1. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1747715041076408.pdf
2. https://documents.gov.lk/view/acts/2025/4/05-2025_E.pdf
3. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2025/5/2438-24_E.pdf
4. https://ciaboc.gov.lk/media-centre/latest-news/1221-a-special-unit-established-at-ciaboc-to-investigate-allegations-of-money-laundering
5. https://mfa.gov.lk/en/sri-lankas-ciaboc-chairman-meets-world-bank-officials-on-strengthening-asset-recovery-framework/#:~:text=Looking%20ahead%2C%20CIABOC%20and%20the,to%20institutionalize%20asset%20recovery%20mechanism
6. https://www.ft.lk/news/Switzerland-pledges-support-for-Sri-Lanka-s-asset-recovery-and-anti-corruption-efforts/56-772214
7. https://ceylontoday.lk/2025/10/21/proceeds-of-crime-investigation-division-launched-massive-rs-10b-money-trail-uncovered/?fbclid=IwdGRzaANj7PtjbGNrA2PsU2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAAEe7kFv82GulAnYEO1ag7H-_ngTsPrbhACpvohviNf_okKNVeJSt8zIfFYB0Gs_aem_igFUrnACZR17xixoaneAgw&sfnsn=waIn Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Prevent MPs and close relatives from having business relationships with government
Anti-Corruption
The National Procurement Guidelines read with the Anti-Corruption Act address conflict of interest, but do not specifically prohibit MPs and their family members from conducting business with the Government......
Read MoreExact Promise
Preventing MPs or their close family members from directly or indirectly engaging in businesses or contracts with the governmentProgress Description
The National Procurement Guidelines read with the Anti-Corruption Act address conflict of interest, but do not specifically prohibit MPs and their family members from conducting business with the Government. Regulations in this regard are yet to be issued.
The National Procurement Guidelines published in Extraordinary Gazette No. 2412/01 of 25 November 2024 and approved in Parliament on 7 January 2025, repeal and replace the previous procurement framework. These guidelines require that “public officers and individuals involved in public procurement shall declare any conflict of interest to the relevant procuring entity (PE) before the commencement of the relevant procurement process”. It further states that “in this regard, Section 107 of the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 09 of 2023 shall be adhered to.” However, Regulations under this section have not yet been issued. As such, these Guidelines stop short of imposing a blanket prohibition on Members of Parliament or their close family members from directly or indirectly engaging in businesses or contracts with the government.
On 7 November 2025, during the 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, mentioned, "Furthermore, by strengthening the Integrated Treasury Management Information System (ITMIS) and creating an e-procurement system, we will eliminate opportunities for fraud and corruption," and "To disrupt the networks of institutions that support corruption, we are strengthening the anti-money laundering framework by introducing a functional beneficial ownership registry by January 2026."
Source/s:
1. https://documents.gov.lk/view/extra-gazettes/2024/11/2412-01_E.pdf
2. https://parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1736487038022510.pdf
3. https://documents.gov.lk/view/acts/2023/8/09-2023_E.pdf
4. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/api/file/0cbd85ce-0f8c-4a10-af3f-03bd0ae59e99In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Abolish the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)
Governance
A new draft bill titled "Protection of the State from Terrorism", an alternative to the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) has been published to receive feedback......
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Abolition of all oppressive Acts including the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and ensuring civil rights of people in all parts of the countryProgress Description
A new draft bill titled "Protection of the State from Terrorism", an alternative to the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), has been published to receive feedback. Nevertheless, arrests have continued under the existing PTA.
A cabinet decision on 21 February 2025, approved the establishment of a commission to review the final draft of a new counter terrorism bill prepared by the Legal Draftsman and to submit proposals for further improvement.
On 16 May 2025, the government issued a public announcement seeking public feedback within just 14 days, on the repeal of the PTA, to consider during the drafting of a new Anti-Terrorism Bill. On 13 November 2025, the committee report was handed over to the Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara.
The draft bill titled "Protection of the State from Terrorism" has been published on the Ministry of Justice and National Integration website in all three languages, and the public has been invited to submit feedback before 28 February 2026.
In Parliament, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath stated that the PTA would be repealed by early September 2025 and replaced with new legislation to safeguard national security. As of this update, this commitment has not yet been carried out.
Meanwhile, arrests continue to be made under the PTA. On 7 March 2025, authorities arrested Mohamed Liyaudeen Mohamed Rusdi for alleged anti-Israel expressions, and Court granted him bail in April 2025. In October 2024, Mohamed Rifai Mohamed Suhail was arrested under the PTA for alleged anti-Israel Instagram content and was released after nine months in detention.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13046
2. https://www.moj.gov.lk/images/pdf/2025/LegalDiv/anti-terrorism-bill-notice-en.pdf
3. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1756894696039492.pdf
4. https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Student-held-under-PTA-for-nine-months-to-be-produced-in-court/108-313746
5. https://www.ft.lk/news/HRCSL-recommends-Public-Security-Ministry-to-pay-Rs-200-000-to-Rusdi-for-violating-fundamental-rights/56-777706
6. https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Committee-submits-report-recommending-repeal-of-PTA/108-324892
7. https://moj.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=769:protection-of-the-state-from-terrorism-bill&catid=23:special-notice&Itemid=241&lang=enIn Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Amend the Online Safety Act to remove restrictions on freedom of expression
Governance
This promise is interpreted as amendments made to remove unreasonable restrictions on freedom of speech contained in the Online Safety Act. A committee has been appointed to review the Online Safety Act......
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Amending the Online Safety Act, No. 09 of 2024 by removing restrictions on freedom of expressionProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as amendments made to remove unreasonable restrictions on freedom of speech contained in the Online Safety Act. A committee has been appointed to review the Online Safety Act.
On 25 May 2025, the Cabinet appointed a committee to review the Online Safety Act, No. 09 of 2024 and submit recommendations for amendments. By 13 August 2025, the committee had invited the public to contribute through observations, comments, recommendations, and suggestions on the proposed amendments.
Separately, on 8 May 2025, Opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake tabled the Online Safety (Repeal) Bill. This was not presented by the Government.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cabinetoffice.gov.lk/cab/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=16&Itemid=49&lang=en&dID=13192
2. https://documents.gov.lk/view/bills/2025/5/590-2025_E.pdf
3. https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/13/public-media-invited-to-comment-on-online-safety-act-amendments/In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Complete investigations and ensure justice for past political assassinations, assaults, and disappearances in all regions including the North and East
Law and Order
This promise is interpreted as investigating and renewed/continued action on at least key, emblematic cases of disappearances or assassinations......
Read MoreExact Promise
Investigating and serving justice to the political assassinations, disappearances and assaults that happened in the past in all areas including the North and EastProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as investigating and renewed/continued action on at least key, emblematic cases of disappearances or assassinations.
Sri Lanka reaffirmed its commitment to the Convention on Enforced Disappearances at the UN, while several high profile cases, including those of Prageeth Ekneligoda, Keith Noyahr, Lasantha Wickramatunge and Raveendranath, saw investigations reopened or renewed. The government also confirmed that Chemmani mass grave exhumations would continue.
On 26 September 2025, the Minister of Justice and National Integration presented Sri Lanka’s initial report under the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance at the 29th Session of the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED) held in Geneva. It reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Convention.
There have been indications of renewed progress in some emblematic and high-profile cases including the abduction of Keith Noyahr, the disappearance of Prageeth Ekneligoda, and the assassination of Lasantha Wickramatunge, with investigations being re-activated by either the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) or the Attorney General’s (AG) Department.
1. Prageeth Ekneligoda case - AG has informed court of CID Director Shani Abeysekara being named as a witness.
2. Keith Noyahr case - CID has reopened the investigation and two former Sri Lanka Army intelligence officers arrested.
3. Lasantha Wickramatunge case - CID has reopened the investigation. However, some of the suspects were released in early 2025.
4. Disappearance of Sivasubramaniam Raveendranath, then Vice-Chancellor of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka - Suspects, including Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan (also known as Pillayan), were arrested by the CID.In terms of Chemmani mass grave excavations, in September 2025 the Ministry of Justice informed that the exhumations will continue, refuting the media reports on lack of funding for excavations. On 1 September 2025 the President stated that a thorough and open inquiry will be conducted for Chemmani mass graves.
Source/s:
1. https://www.cpalanka.org/revisiting-ten-emblematic-cases-in-sri-lanka-why-justice-remains-elusive/
2. https://www.newswire.lk/2025/09/30/sri-lanka-reaffirms-commitment-to-un-committee-on-enforced-disappearances/
3. https://www.ohchr.org/en/meeting-summaries/2025/09/experts-committee-enforced-disappearances-welcome-sri-lankas-law-0
4. https://hirunews.lk/goldfmnews/416361/lasantha-wickrematunges-murder-investigation-reopened
5. https://tamilguardian.com/index.php/content/two-former-sri-lanka-army-intelligence-officers-arrested-over-abduction-and-torture-keith
6. https://www.newsfirst.lk/2025/07/16/prageeth-ekneligoda-disappearance-shani-included-in-evidence-list
7. https://www.newswire.lk/2024/10/12/new-govt-orders-special-inquiry-into-7-high-profile-cases/
8. https://www.newswire.lk/2025/04/12/pillayan-detained-under-pta-for-90-days/In Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Easter Sunday attacks – Initiate prompt legal action as recommended by the Presidential Commission of Inquiry
Law and Order
A police inspector has been arrested by the CID in relation to the Easter Sunday attacks, for misleading the investigation into the murder of two police officers in Vavunathivu, which occurred prior to the Easter Sunday attacks......
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Taking prompt legal action against the relevant politicians and officials according to the recommendations of the Presidential Commission regarding the Easter Sunday attacks on 2019-04-21Progress Description
A police inspector has been arrested by the CID in relation to the Easter Sunday attacks, for misleading the investigation into the murder of two police officers in Vavunathivu, which occurred prior to the Easter Sunday attacks. According to authorities, his actions allowed the real perpetrators who later carried out the Easter Sunday bombings to remain at large.
Source/s:
1. https://srilankamirror.com/news/cid-arrests-police-inspector-over-easter-attacks/No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Enact a new constitution that guarantees equality, democracy, and greater devolution of powers to local, district, and provincial levels
Governance
No information on progress was found......
Read MoreExact Promise
Introduce a new constitution that strengthens democracy and ensures equality of all citizens. This initiative will build on the constitutional reform process started in 2015 which remains incomplete. The proposed constitutional reforms will guarantee equality and democracy and the devolution of political and administrative power to every local government, district and province so that all people can be involved in governance within one countryProgress Description
No information on progress was found.
No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Prepare an alternative Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA)
Social Protection
There is no evidence of progress on an alternative debt sustainability analysis......
Read MoreExact Promise
Prepare an alternative Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) aiming to maintain debt sustainability and to keep the interest at a bearable level for the purpose of using it as and when necessary, in pursuit of debt restructuring engagementsProgress Description
There is no evidence of progress on an alternative debt sustainability analysis.
If an analysis had been undertaken, the debt targets under the IMF programme would have been revised. Instead, all available information, including the most recent IMF reviews, confirms that the original targets set in March 2023 remain unchanged. This strongly suggests that no alternative debt sustainability analysis has been conducted.
Source/s:
1. https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2025/07/02/Sri-Lanka-Fourth-Review-Under-the-Extended-Arrangement-Under-the-Extended-Fund-Facility-568271No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Conduct detailed debt audit on foreign loans obtained by past governments
Economic Reforms
There is no evidence of a detailed audit of foreign loans......
Read MoreExact Promise
Conduct a detailed debt audit on foreign loans obtained by the governments to ensure transparency and accountability in public financial management and to take legal actions against those who have misappropriated such loansProgress Description
There is no evidence of a detailed audit of foreign loans.
Neither the Ministry of Finance nor any other credible source has mentioned such an audit.
No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Exact Promise
Abolishing the executive presidency and appointing a president, without executive powers, by the parliamentProgress Description
No information on progress was found.
No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Release all political prisoners
Law and Order
This promise is interpreted as the releasing of prisoners unjustly held under the PTA during and in relation to the ethnic conflict......
Read MoreExact Promise
Releasing all political prisoners and ensure their free socialisationProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as the releasing of prisoners unjustly held under the PTA during and in relation to the ethnic conflict.
In November 2024, at a public meeting in Vavuniya, the President pledged to release political prisoners upon the advice of the Attorney General. However, the government has not released any information showing progress on this pledge.
Source/s:
1. https://www.sundayobserver.lk/2025/03/02/news-features/46458/sri-lankas-pta-political-prisoners-and-the-fight-for-justice/
2. https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/President-assures-release-of-political-prisoners-northern-lands-captured-by-security-forces/108-295656No Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Gradually increase government expenditure on health to 3% or more within a short period
Economic Reforms
According to the 2026 Citizen Budget, the 2026 sectoral allocation for health amounts to 1.90% of GDP (Rs. 654 million), compared to 1.89% (Rs. 604 million) in the 2025 Citizen Budget......
Read MoreExact Promise
Gradually increase government expenditure on health to at least 3% of the GDP within a short periodProgress Description
According to the 2026 Citizen Budget, the 2026 sectoral allocation for health amounts to 1.90% of GDP (Rs. 654 million), compared to 1.89% (Rs. 604 million) in the 2025 Citizen Budget. To reach the 3% GDP target mentioned in the promise, the average rate of increase should be 0.25% every year for the next 5 years. From 2024 onwards to meet this promise, whereas the increase witnessed this year is less than 0.01%.
Source/s:
1. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-approved-budget-estimates-2025
2. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/2024-approved-detailed-budget-estimates
3. https://www.cbsl.gov.lk/en/publications/economic-and-financial-reports/annual-economic-review/annual-economic-review-2024/statistical-appendixNo Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Results of national examinations for school children are evaluated within one month and released within two months
Other
The examination calendar currently available on the Department of Examinations website, in place since 2018, lists only monthly exam schedules and does not include timelines for school level national examinations......
Read MoreExact Promise
An annual school calendar to ensure national examination evaluation activities are completed within one month and results are provided within two monthsProgress Description
The examination calendar currently available on the Department of Examinations website, in place since 2018, lists only monthly exam schedules and does not include timelines for school level national examinations. No secondary school national examination results were released within two months.
Since the current government took office, two national examinations have been held: Advanced Level (A/L), and Ordinary Level (O/L). Both examinations have exceeded the promised two-month timeframe for releasing results.Source/s:
1. https://www.doenets.lk/examcalendar
2. https://www.doenets.lk/images/resources/NEWS/AL%20Time%20Table%202025_1755235159873.pdf
3. https://www.gazette.lk/2025/04/al-results-release-date-2024-2025-www-doenets-lk.html
4. https://www.doenets.lk/images/resources/NEWS/OL%20timetable%20English%20-%202024%202025_1738224672031.pdfNo Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Expand the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s scope of work to include racism and religious extremism
Social Protection
This promise is interpreted as the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the expansion of its mandate under a law......
Read MoreExact Promise
Expanding the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate acts of violence caused by racism and religious extremismProgress Description
This promise is interpreted as the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the expansion of its mandate under a law.
Previously, an Interim Secretariat for Truth and Reconciliation Mechanism (ISTRM) was created, without the passing of a law to set it up. A law is yet to be enacted.
On 8 September 2025, during the 60th United Nations Human Rights Council session, the Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that the government had initiated a process to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. However, specific details of the process remain unavailable to the public.
Source/s:
1. https://www.un.int/srilanka/news/statement-delivered-hon-vijitha-herath-minister-foreign-affairs-foreign-employment-and-tourism
2. https://documents.gov.lk/view/bills/2024/8/540-2024_E.pdf
3. https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/hrbodies/hrcouncil/sessions-regular/session60/advance-version/a-hrc-60-21-auv.pdfNo Progress
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
CIABOC to investigate complaints within six (06) months of receipt; or submit a report to Parliament in respect of the rest
Anti-Corruption
Despite performance reports tabled in Parliament and a separate report by CIABOC on cases withdrawn, the reports do not contain information on complaints received or complaints that were not addressed... ...
Read MoreExact Promise
Investigate complaints received by the Anti-Corruption Commission within six (06) months or submit a report to Parliament every six (06) months on complaints that are not dealt withProgress Description
Despite performance reports tabled in Parliament and a separate report by Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) on cases withdrawn, the reports do not contain information on complaints received or complaints that were not addressed.
In 2025, the CIABOC tabled three reports in Parliament:
A. Performance Report for the First Quarter of 2024 – tabled on 20 February 2025
B. Performance Report for the Second Quarter of 2024 – tabled on 20 February 2025
C. Performance Report for the Third Quarter of 2024 – tabled on 20 February 2025
However, these reports do not address complaints that remain unresolved or not dealt with by the Commission.A separate report published by CIABOC as of 28 February 2025, lists down 34 cases which have been withdrawn and the reasons behind withdrawal.
Source/s:
1. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/paperspresented/1741165060029911.pdf
2. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/paperspresented/1741165275072247.pdf
3. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/paperspresented/1741165341028336.pdf
4. https://www.ciaboc.gov.lk/images/pdf/2025/Withdrawn_Cases_20250228.pdfFailed
Date of Update: 11 Nov 2025
Hold Provincial Council elections within one year
Governance
Provincial Council elections have not been held within a year since the current administration assumed office......
Read MoreExact Promise
Provincial council elections, which are currently postponed indefinitely, will be held within a year to provide an opportunity for the people to join the governanceProgress Description
Provincial Council elections have not been held within a year since the current administration assumed office.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, informed Parliament that Provincial Council elections are expected to take place in 2026, provided that Parliament first discusses and approves the delimitation process and the electoral system under which they will be held.
In the 2026 Draft Detailed Budget Estimates, Rs. 5 billion has been allocated to conduct elections, in contrast to the Rs. 20 billion allocated in the 2025 Revised Budget Estimates, which reflects the costs associated with the 2024 Local Government elections.
Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake stated in Parliament that a special select committee will be appointed to review the legal framework related to conducting the Provincial Council elections.
Source/s:
1. https://www.parliament.lk/uploads/documents/hansard/1761646051083547.pdf
2. https://www.treasury.gov.lk/web/detailed-budget-estimates-2026
3. https://www.newswire.lk/2025/11/15/provincial-council-elections-update-from-govt/Subscribe for
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