By Impact of the Deshabandu Thenakoon Issue on the Country
The ongoing stalemate surrounding the appointment of an Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) has created a significant administrative and operational vacuum within Sri Lanka’s police force. This issue, primarily concerning the vacant position of IGP and the post of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Administration, is having widespread ramifications on the country’s law enforcement capabilities and overall governance.
The absence of a functioning IGP or Acting IGP has led to critical disruptions in police operations. Essential functions such as issuing operational directions, signing important documents, and overseeing tender processes are currently in limbo. These tasks are crucial for maintaining day-to-day police activities and ensuring that law enforcement remains effective. The lack of clear leadership and direction from the top has made it challenging for the police to carry out their responsibilities efficiently. The situation is exacerbated by the concurrent vacancy in the DIG (Administration) post, which was left open following the compulsory leave of SDIG Nilantha Jayawardena in connection with the Easter Sunday attack investigations.
The senior police officials have indicated that while short-term management of police functions is feasible, a prolonged vacancy at the top levels could severely impair operational effectiveness. Without a definitive leader to provide guidance, the police force faces difficulties in executing critical functions, from managing ongoing investigations to handling administrative and operational directives.
Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe has flagged the potential security risks posed by the absence of an IGP or Acting IGP. The uncertainty in leadership could impact not only routine policing but also special operations, including those related to national security. This vacuum could also undermine public confidence in law enforcement’s ability to maintain order and address emerging security challenges.
The timing of this issue is particularly concerning given the approaching presidential election. The Election Commission is preparing to establish operation centers to monitor election-related violence and law violations. However, the lack of a permanent IGP raises concerns about the adequacy of security arrangements and the effectiveness of the commission’s plans. While the commission has outlined measures to ensure that election-related activities proceed smoothly, the overarching concern remains the potential impact of leadership voids on election security and administration.
