By: Isuru Parakrama

November 01, Colombo (LNW): In a recent rally held by the National People’s Power in Matara, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that ministers in the forthcoming Parliament will not be allocated housing in Colombo, emphasising a shift towards decentralised governance and reduced privileges for officials.

The President underscored that this change aims to foster stronger ties between leaders and their local constituencies.

President Dissanayake revealed plans for a streamlined Cabinet of under 25 ministers, to be formed after November 14.

He noted that ministerial privileges would be significantly reduced, aligning with a vision to transform ministers into dedicated public servants with expertise and insight into their respective fields.

In his proposed model, the remaining MPs will be encouraged to support ministries on a voluntary basis, creating a collaborative structure in which all MPs contribute to national development.

Addressing the need for more direct local governance, the President stressed the importance of representatives actively engaging with their districts.

He highlighted that local leaders have valuable insights into the specific issues facing their communities, such as flood risks, and are therefore essential in delivering timely and effective solutions.

“We need a government that connects with the people directly,” he stated, arguing that elected leaders must prioritise their localities rather than remaining detached in the capital.

Emphasising a new approach to governance, President Dissanayake declared that “no minister will be provided housing in Colombo” and urged MPs to maintain close ties with their villages, staying informed about local challenges.

This approach, he asserted, will enable the government to be more attuned to the needs of its citizens, building a direct, people-focused leadership.

In his closing remarks, the President encouraged the public to support this transformative vision for a government that fosters widespread participation in Sri Lanka’s progress.

He appealed for a strong mandate in the upcoming election, underscoring the intent to establish a government structure unlike any seen before in Sri Lanka’s history, one where every citizen has a stake in the nation’s development.