By Public Security Ministry Secretary Viyani Gunatillake Vested with IGP Powers Amid Election Preparations
In an unexpected move amid the ongoing presidential election preparations, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has vested significant powers in Public Security Ministry Secretary Viyani Gunatillake. This decision comes instead of appointing an Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) as recommended by the Supreme Court. The directive empowers Gunatillake to undertake all responsibilities typically managed by the IGP during this crucial period.
Mr. Gunatillake confirmed to the Sunday Times that he received an official communication from the President’s Secretary, Saman Ekanayake, confirming this authority. “I have been entrusted with the full scope of IGP duties to ensure the smooth conduct of the election,” Gunatillake stated. This includes issuing police orders, deploying officers for election-related duties, managing logistical needs, and ensuring subsistence payments during the election period.
Gunatillake has already initiated communication with Senior Deputy Inspectors General (SDIG) to address election-related requirements and issues. Police officers have been assigned to Election Offences Complaint Centres across the districts, marking the beginning of his extensive role in maintaining election integrity and security. “I will be taking care of all police arrangements for the upcoming elections,” he assured.
Acting IGP Appointment
The Election Commission Chairman, R.M.A.L. Ratnayake, revealed that he had written to the President regarding the appointment of an Acting IGP. In response, he was informed about the delegation of IGP duties to the Public Security Ministry Secretary. Ratnayake has since met with Gunatillake and SDIG Lalith Pathinayake to discuss the necessary security measures. Pathinayake is currently overseeing administration following the compulsory leave of SDIG Nilantha Jayawardena due to investigations related to the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.
A committee led by Gunatillake has also convened to deliberate special security arrangements for election candidates. This includes threat assessments for each candidate to determine their specific security needs. These proactive measures aim to ensure a safe and fair electoral process amid a tense political climate.
The decision to vest these powers in Gunatillake follows the interdiction of IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon, pending a court order. The appointment of an Acting IGP remains unresolved, creating a temporary but critical reliance on the Public Security Ministry Secretary to uphold law and order during this l election period.
As the nation braces for the upcoming elections, the strategic move by President Wickremesinghe to entrust Gunatillake with such significant responsibilities underscores the importance of maintaining stability and security during the democratic process on one hand and on the other it may be a move to deviate from the Supreme Court ruling .
