Colombo, Sri Lanka – 02 October 2026 – The Elections Commission, through a special gazette notification, has formally announced the appointment of Mr. K. Ganeswaran as a new member to the Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha. This significant update, detailed in Gazette No. 2507/78 and dated September 24, 2026, addresses a vacancy within the vital local authority in the Trincomalee district.
Filling a Vacancy in Local Governance
The appointment comes as a direct consequence of a vacancy that arose within the Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha. The initial seat holder, Mr. Sankararaja Rajamani, who had been elected to represent the Sri Lanka Tamil Arasu Katchi, failed to take the required oath of office. Under the provisions of Section 66A(1)(a) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance (Chapter 262), a member who does not assume office by taking the oath within 30 days of their election automatically forfeits their position, leading to a casual vacancy.
In adherence to this legal framework, Mr. S.K.S. Theniranjan, the Returning Officer for the Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha, initiated the process to fill the vacant position. He instructed the Secretary of the Sri Lanka Tamil Arasu Katchi to nominate a suitable candidate to ensure continued representation and functionality within the local council.
Mr. K. Ganeswaran Takes Office
Following the directive, the Sri Lanka Tamil Arasu Katchi officially put forward Mr. K. Ganeswaran as their nominee to fill the vacant seat. The special gazette, issued under the authority of the government, confirms that Mr. Ganeswaran has been duly selected as a member of the Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha. His appointment is effective from the date of the gazette announcement, solidifying the council’s full composition.
This swift action by the Elections Commission and the Sri Lanka Tamil Arasu Katchi underscores the commitment to maintaining robust local governance structures. The Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha, like all local authorities, plays a crucial role in community development, infrastructure management, and the provision of essential services to its constituents. Mr. Ganeswaran’s entry is expected to contribute to these ongoing efforts, ensuring the local populace receives diligent representation.
The gazette notice reinforces the structured legal processes that underpin elections and appointments within Sri Lanka’s local government system, highlighting the importance of adherence to established democratic procedures. This appointment will allow the Samarasewiwa Pradeshiya Sabha to continue its work without impediment.
Source: Read original document