CC resolute against further extension for IGP

• President was formally requested to appoint someone permanently
• Three members representing civil society- Prathap Ramanujam, Dr. D. Anula Wijesundara, and Dr. Dinesha Samararatne- were resolute in their view that  Wickramaratne’s extension should not be approved this time

 By Kelum Bandara  

The Constitutional Council (CC) has firmed up its position against granting any more service extensions to Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratane, Daily Mirror learns.  The CC discussed the matter at its meeting presided over by Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardane on Tuesday. The CC consists of ten members, including Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardane and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa. Three members representing civil society- Prathap Ramanujam, Dr. D. Anula Wijesundara, and Dr. Dinesha Samararatne- were resolute in their view that  Wickramaratne’s extension should not be approved this time though the President persisted with his decision.  

In accordance with the Constitution, the appointment of the IGP requires the president’s authority, subject to approval by the Constitutional Council. The last time a service extension was granted, the CC formally requested President Ranil Wickremesinghe to expedite the permanent appointment of a new IGP. However,  Wickramaratne was subsequently granted a three-week extension in his service.  

Sources familiar with the CC’s proceedings during Tuesday’s meeting disclosed to Daily Mirror that, while the President is mandated to seek the CC’s approval for appointing a new IGP, no such requirement exists when it comes to extending the service of an incumbent.  

Nonetheless, the CC has now decided to call upon the President to take action towards the permanent appointment of a new IGP from among the senior-most police officers currently in service.