President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has presented his vision for a “scientific” method of Cabinet appointments, stating that ministers in his government will be selected based on their expertise rather than personal relationships. During a recent event in Monaragala, he emphasized that the National People’s Power (NPP) is shifting away from appointing individuals based on familial or friendly ties, instead prioritizing a Cabinet grounded in professional qualifications and accountability to the public.
“Our ministers have a duty to the people and are part of a collective movement aimed at elevating the nation,” President Dissanayake remarked, affirming his dedication to fostering a government that values competence over favoritism. He also called for a significant change in Sri Lanka’s political culture, advocating for responsible management of public resources while challenging existing practices.
The President pointed out the extensive vehicle fleet managed by the Presidential Secretariat and expressed concerns over the absence of standardized protocols for resource allocation throughout the government. Additionally, he highlighted the inequality in access to essential services, illustrating the contrast between the 24-hour ambulance service available to former presidents in urban areas and the shortages faced by rural hospitals. He proposed repurposing underutilized government properties in Colombo for public use. Dissanayake urged a collaborative national effort among politicians, officials, and citizens to foster accountable governance and equitable development in Sri Lanka.
