Govt Allocates Rs. 23B for Local Authorities

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government has confirmed that administrative power has been established in 336 out of 339 local government bodies across Sri Lanka.

According to Deputy Minister Ruwan Senarath, the formation of councils in Seethawaka and Anamaduwa has been delayed due to the absence of a quorum, while the Wanathavilluwa Pradeshiya Sabha remains pending due to ongoing legal proceedings.

The National People's Power (NPP) has emerged as the dominant political force, securing control of 224 local authorities. 

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) follows with 36, while the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) has taken control of 33 councils.

Other parties that have secured control include:

Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) – 7 councils

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) – 6 councils

Lanka Labour Congress (LLC) – 3 councils

Podujana Eksath Peramuna and United National Party (UNP) – 2 councils each

In the most recent local government elections, members were elected to 339 local bodies.

The Ministry also announced that Rs. 23 billion has been allocated to accelerate development activities in these local authorities.