Colombo, 06 September 2026 – The Bulathkohupitiya Pradeshiya Sabha has a new member following an Extraordinary Gazette notification (No. 2504/12) published by the Election Commission on September 01, 2026. Mr. Jayalath Arachchillage Indika Udaya Kumara has been officially declared elected to represent Ward Number 02 Puspane, filling a vacancy that arose due to the demise of a previous member.
Filling the Vacancy in Accordance with Electoral Law
The vacancy in the Bulathkohupitiya Pradeshiya Sabha arose following the death of Mr. Wickrama Arachchillage Anura Wickramaarachchi, who represented the Jathika Jana Balawegaya, a recognized political party. In line with Section 66A(1)(a) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance (Chapter 262), the Returning Officer initiated the process to fill this critical local government position.
Under this section, the Secretary of the Jathika Jana Balawegaya was required to nominate a suitable candidate from Ward Number 02 Puspane within a period of thirty days. The nominee had to belong to the party and not be disqualified under Section 9 of the same Ordinance.
Jathika Jana Balawegaya Nominates Successor
Responding to this requirement, the Secretary of the Jathika Jana Balawegaya communicated the party’s decision to nominate Mr. Jayalath Arachchillage Indika Udaya Kumara to fill the vacant seat. This nomination ensured the continuity of representation for the constituents of Puspane Ward 02.
Official Declaration by Returning Officer
The official declaration was made by Ms. K. R. Wasundara E. Dissanayake, the Returning Officer for the Bulathkohupitiya Pradeshiya Sabha. Acting strictly in terms of Section 66A(1)(a) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance, Ms. Dissanayake confirmed Mr. Jayalath Arachchillage Indika Udaya Kumara’s election as a member of the Bulathkohupitiya Pradeshiya Sabha for Ward Number 02 Puspane.
The confirmation from the District Elections Office in Kegalle was dated August 31, 2026, preceding the Extraordinary Gazette’s publication. This gazette, part of the government’s official notifications, serves to formally publicize such appointments, ensuring transparency and adherence to democratic procedures within Sri Lanka’s local government structure.
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