Parliament Committee Approves Bill to Cut Ex-Presidents’ Privileges

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sectoral Oversight Committee on Governance, Justice and Civil Protection has officially approved the Presidents’ Entitlements (Repeal) Bill following detailed consideration during its meeting held in Parliament, chaired by Hon. Dr. Najith Indika, MP.

Officials from the Ministry of Justice and National Integration stated that the Bill aligns with the Government Policy Statement and aims to eliminate non-economic entitlements granted to former and future Presidents and their families, in light of the country’s current economic conditions.

They noted that while retired Heads of State in other countries often receive pensions and privileges due to continued official responsibilities, the repeal bill introduces limits on such benefits for those not assigned any official duties post-tenure.

As per the decision made at the Committee on Parliamentary Business, the Bill is scheduled for second reading and debate in Parliament today (10).