The Sri Lanka Foreign Service Association has strongly expressed its dissatisfaction with the government’s decision to appoint political figures as ambassadors to major countries, bypassing experienced career diplomats.
In an official statement, the association condemned the practice of political appointments within the diplomatic service, emphasizing that the Sri Lanka Foreign Service comprises specially trained officers dedicated to executing the country’s foreign policy. The statement asserted that sidelining professional diplomats in favor of political appointees undermines the integrity and effectiveness of the diplomatic service.
Furthermore, the association highlighted that such political appointments contradict the policy framework presented by the government during the election. According to the government’s policy statement, ambassadorial appointments should be based on a merit-based system that evaluates the professional excellence of career diplomats. The association has urged the authorities to adhere to this commitment and ensure that appointments align with the promised selection criteria.
Despite multiple requests to discuss this matter with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath, no steps have been taken to facilitate such discussions to date.
