For God’s sake, resign

Our country’s politics has long been marred by a deeply entrenched culture of patronage, particularly in political appointments. As each new administration takes office, numerous changes occur in key positions within public institutions, boards, and even diplomatic missions abroad. From chairmen of corporations to ambassadors and high commissioners, these individuals are often appointed not based on merit, but due to personal and political connections to the ruling regime.

While it is constitutionally permissible for the head of state to appoint individuals to such roles, the underlying assumption is that these appointments should be made with the nation’s best interest in mind—namely, selecting individuals based on competence, expertise, and merit. Unfortunately, in Sri Lanka, the reality is quite different. Political loyalty and personal favouritism tend to trump qualifications, creating an environment where public roles are handed out as rewards for allegiance rather than for competence.

However, what is even more troubling than the initial appointments is the unwillingness of many political appointees to vacate their positions when a new administration assumes power. Once a clear change in mandate has occurred—most notably through a presidential election—it is only proper that these individuals step down, allowing the new administration to appoint its own representatives. This is not only a matter of respecting the will of the people but also a question of integrity and decency.

A glaring example of this issue can be found in Sri Lanka’s diplomatic corps. Many heads of missions, ambassadors, high commissioners, and even lower-level diplomats owe their positions to the political patronage of the previous administration. Yet, despite a clear change in government, many of these appointees have not tendered their resignations. Some of these diplomats are relatives and associates of politicians, appointed with little regard for their qualifications or experience in foreign relations. Their continued presence in these roles undermines the credibility of the country’s diplomatic missions and hinders the ability of the new administration to implement its foreign policy agenda effectively. 

Former Ministers Rohitha Bogollagama and Mahinda Samarasinghe hold heads of mission posts in London and Washington DC respectively while constitutionally ousted purported Chief Justice Mohan Peiris remains Sri Lanka’s permanent representative to the UN in New York. These are but a few examples of the multitude of former public servants, friends and families of politicians who hold diplomatic posts in Sri Lanka Missions across the world. It is astonishing that none of them have an iota of dignity to resign from their ill-gotten posts. 

It is essential that a culture of accountability and respect for the democratic process is fostered in Sri Lanka. Political appointees, particularly those who have been appointed for reasons of patronage, must recognise that their positions are not permanent entitlements. When an administration changes, it is their duty to resign.

For too long, Sri Lanka has been plagued by a political class that views public office as a personal reward rather than a public trust. This must change. The first step toward reform is for political appointees to voluntarily step down when their patrons leave office. By doing so, they will not only demonstrate respect for the democratic process but also help pave the way for a more merit-based system of governance—one that prioritises competence and the nation’s interest above political loyalty.

It is also hoped that the new administration under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will endeavour to break this political client system of filling high posts with loyalists and rent-seekers.