In the current context of Sri Lanka’s national security, it is evident that significant structural reforms are imperative. While the importance of a secure nation is widely acknowledged, there seems to be a lack of proactive measures to improve the existing security framework. This negligence underscores the urgent need to appoint qualified and experienced individuals to pivotal roles, ensuring the effective management of both national and international security challenges.
One key reform involves the appointment of a National Security Advisor (NSA). This role is crucial for the nation’s strategic security operations and cannot be filled haphazardly. The individual chosen must possess extensive experience, maturity, and a profound understanding of both national and international security frameworks. Their qualifications and knowledge must surpass any political affiliations.
Looking to India provides valuable insights into how such a role should be approached. India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, is a former intelligence officer with a distinguished career in the police service. At 79 years old, Doval’s wealth of experience highlights the fact that maturity and expertise, rather than youth, are essential for this position. Roles like these demand strategic thinking and a comprehensive understanding of security issues, which can only be gained through decades of experience.
Furthermore, India’s defence administration structure offers a model worth considering. In India, the Defence Secretary is an administrative officer from the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), responsible for managing defence-related administrative duties. Adopting a similar approach in Sri Lanka could strengthen governance. The National Security Advisor need not necessarily have a military background. For example, in the United States, the NSA is a lawyer, while in the United Kingdom, the role is held by a diplomat. What matters most is the individual’s ability to navigate and address complex national and international security concerns with effectiveness and diplomacy.
In contrast, the position of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in Sri Lanka raises questions about its necessity. This position does not contribute significantly to the country’s defence framework and could be abolished through a simple gazette notification, streamlining the defence hierarchy.
Another issue deserving attention is the establishment of Seva Vanitha Units within the armed forces. Each branch of the armed forces already has a welfare unit capable of addressing such matters. Creating separate units appears redundant and risks undermining the overall efficiency and discipline of the armed forces.
This moment in time presents a unique opportunity for reform, given the current government’s two-thirds majority in Parliament. This authority enables the implementation of necessary changes without political obstacles. For example, the appointment of military commanders should not be based solely on seniority. Instead, the top five candidates should be assessed through a thorough interview process, conducted by a competent board. This ensures that the most capable individual, rather than the one with the most years of service, assumes leadership roles. Seniority alone does not guarantee capability, as some individuals may have achieved senior ranks without making significant contributions to the military.
