Under the newly enacted Presidents’ Entitlements (Repeal) Act, former presidents are now required to return the official residences previously allocated to them.
Former Presidents Mahinda Rajapaksa, Maithripala Sirisena, and Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga currently reside in official residences, but the law passed on September 10 ends this entitlement.
Reports indicate that Mahinda Rajapaksa is expected to vacate his official residence today (September 11) and return to his private residence at Carlton House in Hambantota, according to a spokesperson for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).
Political sources further suggest that Maithripala Sirisena and Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga will also hand back their official residences to the state.
The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government stated that if the residences are not surrendered, written notices will be issued to ensure compliance, and appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the new Act.
Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne certified the Presidents’ Entitlements (Repeal) Bill, which was passed in Parliament by a majority of 150 votes. The second reading debate began at 11:30 a.m. on September 10, followed by the vote at around 3:30 p.m., resulting in 151 votes in favor and one against.
The Bill, presented to Parliament on August 7, 2025, by the Minister of Justice and National Integration, repeals the Presidents’ Entitlements Act, No. 4 of 1986.
As a result, any official residences, monthly allowances, secretarial support, official transport, and pensions previously provided to former Presidents or their widows under the repealed Act will be abolished.
