President Ranil takes over Environment Ministry after Ahamed loses his seat

An extraordinary gazette has been released, dated 12 October, placing the Ministry of Environment under the authority of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.According to the gazette, the President, in consultation with the Prime Minister, and in accordance with Article 44(3) of the Constitution, has decided to bring the ministerial responsibility for the Environment under his direct control.

The gazette, issued by Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, is set to be effective from 11 October.

Former Member of Parliament for the Batticaloa District, Ahamed Naseer, previously held the portfolio. However, the Supreme Court disqualified him as a Member of Parliament. (SI)