Sri Lanka's Local Government reform: Strategic imperative for progress - Part 1

SRI Lanka's recent Local Government elections marked a pivotal moment in the nation's democratic process, as citizens voted to appoint representatives to municipal councils and Pradeshiya Sabhas. While political negotiations regarding leadership positions at the local level still dominate discussions at the national level, the real focus for Sri Lankans should be on the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of local governance. Voters expect action on issues such as service delivery, infrastructure, and community welfare areas that have often been neglected.

- By Eng. Janaka Seneviratne

The National People's Power (NPP) Government now faces an important opportunity to lead meaningful reforms at the local level. Although it does not control all local authorities, it has the mandate and responsibility to drive positive change. However, reforming Sri Lanka's local governance system requires more than just the election of new leaders. It requires systemic transformation in local governance and service delivery.

The need for comprehensive reform

The challenge for new leaders lies in the outdated and often inefficient framework governing local councils. Without comprehensive reform, even the most dedicated representatives will struggle to meet the needs of their communities. True progress requires a modernised approach in structural, procedural, and cultural changes to local government operations.

My personal experience in local government reform, both in Sri Lanka and Australia, has shown that sustainable change is achievable, but only through strategic, long-term efforts. In Australia, I have been directly involved in the restructuring process of a premier City Council, which led to significant improvements in service delivery, operational efficiency, and community trust. The foundational pillars of the restructuring process were advanced asset management principles. Sri Lanka's local government system faces similar challenges, such as inefficiencies, politicisation, and fragmented service delivery, demanding urgent reform.

Sri Lanka's reform agenda: An ongoing journey

Having worked in Sri Lanka's local government sector and contributed to reform efforts in New South Wales, I understand the limitations of the existing system. When I previously called for reform, there was a lack of political will to implement significant changes. In the present context, with new electoral mandates in place, the opportunity for reform is again within reach, but the window is narrowing.