Sri Lanka has taken a major step toward abolishing the parliamentary pension system that has existed for almost five decades, after the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Public Administration, Justice and Civil Protection granted unanimous approval to a bill repealing the benefit. The move is being framed by the government as a structural reform aimed at reshaping political culture and reducing long-criticized privileges enjoyed by lawmakers.
Committee Chairman MP Najith Indika described the decision as a significant milestone in transforming politics from a profession associated with special entitlements into one centered on public service, in line with commitments made in the current administration’s policy manifesto. He said the abolition of the pension scheme was one of the key promises presented to voters ahead of the election.
The proposed legislation has already passed several stages in the lawmaking process. It was first published in the Government Gazette in early 2026, formally introduced in Parliament, and completed its first reading before being referred to the oversight committee for detailed examination. After reviewing its provisions and implications, the committee endorsed the bill without dissent, allowing it to advance to the next legislative phase.
The bill is expected to be presented to Parliament for its second reading next week. Following debate and a parliamentary vote, it will require the Speaker’s assent to become law. Once enacted, the amendment will fully repeal the Members of Parliament Pension Act No. 1 of 1977.
The reform would eliminate the longstanding provision that granted MPs a lifetime pension after just five years of service, a benefit that has often drawn public criticism during periods of economic hardship and calls for greater political accountability.
Supporters of the measure say its passage would mark one of the most significant shifts in Sri Lanka’s political framework in decades, signaling an effort to align elected office more closely with civic duty rather than personal entitlement. The upcoming parliamentary debate is expected to test the breadth of political consensus behind the change, even as the initial committee approval suggests strong institutional backing for the reform.
