PUCSL not independent under Constitution: PM Harini responds to Ravi K

Colombo, Oct. 10 (Daily Mirror) - The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) is not considered an Independent Commission under the Constitution, but rather a statutory body established through ordinary legislation, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said.

Responding to a series of questions raised by UNP MP Ravi Karunanayake, the Prime Minister informed Parliament that nine Independent Commissions have been established under the Constitution of Sri Lanka, including those under Article 41B.

Responding to a query on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the Prime Minister said that while some Independent Commissions have adopted formal SOPs, others function using internal administrative guidelines.

When questioned about the absence of SOPs in certain Commissions, Prime Minister Amarasuriya said the authority to adopt or not adopt such procedures lies entirely with each Independent Commission.

“The development and formalization of SOPs vary across Commissions, as it is not a mandatory requirement. Since these Commissions are independent under the Constitution, the government cannot determine a specific timeline,” she said.

Addressing concerns on transparency, the Prime Minister stated that there is currently no legal or constitutional obligation for Independent Commissions to table their SOPs in Parliament. 

However, she added that the government would consider such a move if deemed necessary to enhance public accountability.