Decision-making should reflect people’s needs: Minister Abayaratne

Colombo, Oct. 26 (Daily Mirror) - In order to make the best decisions at crucial moments when working for the people, we need a vision for the future. When we take action, we must carefully weigh the pros and cons, Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Dr. Chandana Abayaratne said.

He made these remarks at the symbolic appointment ceremony for the members of the Voluntary Advisory Council of the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, held at the Ministry on Friday (24).

Each ministry has the authority to appoint an advisor or a group of advisors to support decision-making related to its functions and responsibilities. Accordingly, the Voluntary Advisory Council, consisting of 10 members — including reputable scholars, researchers, professionals, and retired senior government officials — was appointed today under the scope of this Ministry.

Explaining the purpose and role of establishing Ministry Advisory Councils, Minister Abayaratne said, “We need a vision of the future to make the best decisions during critical times when working for the people. We expect this Advisory Council to contribute meaningfully to that process.”

He further said that the Ministry, which has the widest reach across the country, requires a suitable and experienced group to deliver services at the speed and quality expected by the public. “This is not an opportunity everyone receives,” he said.

“At a time like this — whether we are in politics, in public service, or as citizens — history has entrusted us with a significant challenge and responsibility. Such opportunities are rare. When a group of people is given the chance to build a nation, we should be proud to dedicate our labour, knowledge, and time to fulfilling that responsibility. Our collective happiness will depend on how well we work to meet the expectations of the people.”

Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government, Ruwan Senarath, speaking at the event, said that recent public consultations highlighted the need to improve the efficiency and quality of public administration and services.

He added that many individuals within civil society are ready to contribute their expertise and make meaningful interventions. “With their involvement, the new government aims to strengthen ministry operations, increase efficiency, and adopt a more scientific approach. This advisory council connects the Ministry with those who dedicated years to public service in their respective fields and are now willing to continue contributing voluntarily,” he said.

Several other ministries have already established similar voluntary advisory bodies. However, the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government plays a particularly crucial role, as it connects every part of the country. “It is like the heart that circulates blood throughout the body,” officials noted. The essential guidance required for decision-making at such a pivotal institution will now be supported by this newly appointed Council.

The newly appointed Voluntary Advisory Council members are:

• Professor Dharma Rajapaksa
• Professor Mansur Mohamed Fasil
• Professor M.G. Kularatne
• Kanthi Hemamali Wijethunga
• Attorney-at-Law S.A. Wijayananda
• H.M. Sunil Herath
• L.U. Hettiarachchi
• H. Thilakawardena
• N.A. Dharmasiri
• Shiran Karanathilaka

The Secretary to the Ministry, S. Aloka Bandara, briefed the gathering on the Ministry’s scope and core functions, while several members of the Advisory Council also shared their views.