IGP post not vacant, President cannot appoint acting IGP – PM
Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has clarified that the President has no legal provisions at this moment to appoint an Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Delivering a special statement in Parliament, the Prime Minister also emphasized that the position of the IGP is not vacated presently.
The Supreme Court recently issued an interim injunction preventing Deshabandu Tennakoon from carrying out duties as the IGP until further notice, with the case scheduled to reconvene on November 11.
The Prime Minister emphasized that this timeline coincides with the upcoming presidential election, underscoring that a new President is expected to take office by November 11.
Citing constitutional provisions, Dinesh Gunawardena noted that the appointment of an Acting IGP requires the President’s recommendation.
However, with the President currently a presidential candidate, the process has encountered unprecedented challenges.
“In accordance with our constitutional framework, the responsibility lies with the President to appoint an Acting IGP,” said Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena during the parliamentary session.
Addressing concerns regarding the vacancy of the IGP position, the Prime Minister clarified that the former IGP retains the position until further legal clarity is achieved.
“The President cannot appoint an Acting IGP while the position is not vacant. The former IGP still holds the position.” he said.