The Sri Lankan government has begun implementing the newly passed law that revokes special privileges previously granted to former Presidents, including the right to occupy official residences.

Cabinet Spokesperson Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa noted that some former Presidents had lived in state housing for decades, even after leaving office, creating what he described as an anomaly.

“One former President lived in government housing for 31 years—as President, then Prime Minister, and later as a former President. Another lived in state housing from 1984 to 2015 as a minister and President, and continues to reside there. In some cases, children of former Presidents were even born, schooled, married, and raised families in these official residences,” he said.

Dr. Jayatissa stressed that the government had a public mandate to end this culture, and the new law will apply equally to all, including the current President once his term ends.

When asked about the future use of these high-value properties, he explained that once handed back, the government will assess their financial and market value to determine how they can be used for economically productive purposes.

In response to questions on diplomatic protocol, Dr. Jayatissa clarified that foreign heads of state may continue to meet former Presidents at their private residences.