Central Province Governor Dr. Suranga Fernando has suspended the opposition-controlled Pathahewaheta Pradeshiya Sabha in Kandy and transferred its administrative powers to the District Assistant Commissioner of Local Government.
According to an Extraordinary Gazette issued on October 19, the powers and functions of the Pradeshiya Sabha and its Chairman have been entrusted to Kandy District Assistant Commissioner of Local Government A.W.G.L. Attanayake.
The decision follows an investigation initiated by the Governor in response to public complaints alleging that the Pradeshiya Sabha, controlled by an opposition alliance led by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), had failed to successfully implement development projects benefiting local residents.
The Governor had appointed retired judicial officer Nihal Sunil Rajapaksha to conduct an inquiry into the allegations through a Gazette notification issued on September 22.
The suspension was imposed under the powers vested in the Governor by the Pradeshiya Sabha Act, No. 15 of 1987.
At the last Local Government Elections, the opposition alliance secured 25 of the council’s 43 seats, while the National People’s Power (NPP) obtained the remaining 18 seats.
The SJB and several other political parties subsequently formed an alliance to establish control of the council, with SJB member Krishantha Rajanayake appointed as Chairman.
However, the chairmanship became vacant following Rajanayake’s resignation amid bribery allegations, prompting the temporary appointment of the Vice Chairman as Acting Chairman.
The Central Province Commissioner of Local Government subsequently convened the council on three occasions to elect a new Chairman. However, all three attempts were unsuccessful due to the absence of the required quorum.
Meanwhile, Central Province Commissioner of Local Government Chamila Athapaththu had reported to the Governor that the council had failed to comply with official directives and instructions, citing disobedience and negligence.
The Governor subsequently moved to suspend the council and place its administration under the Assistant Commissioner of Local Government.
