Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that delaying essential work by citing reasons such as fuel shortages and lack of funds during a time when people are struggling for their lives is unacceptable under any circumstances. He further emphasized that unlawful actions can never be made legal merely by passing resolutions in council meetings.
The Governor made these remarks while participating as the Chief Guest at a special workshop for the Hon. Mayors and Chairmen of Local Authorities in the Northern Province, held today – on Friday 19 December 2025, at the Provincial Department of Local Government, Northern Province in Kaithady.
Continuing his address, the Governor said:
“While I commend many Chairmen who worked tirelessly day and night to alleviate the suffering of the people during the disaster period, it is also necessary to point out certain bitter truths. District and Divisional Secretaries expressed their concerns to me regarding the conduct of some local authorities during the disaster. When people were fighting for their lives, it is unforgivable that certain councils imposed conditions such as ‘we will operate machinery only if fuel is provided’ or ‘we will work only if funds are allocated,’ citing administrative difficulties. Even when the Provincial Administration was ready to provide funds, wasting time by repeatedly requesting funds from Divisional Secretariats set a wrong precedent.
News reported in today’s media is deeply distressing. It has been reported that in an area under the Jaffna Municipal Council, when a tree fell onto a house, the authorities claimed there was no manpower to remove it, and ultimately the council members themselves removed the tree. This is a highly shameful matter. Such irresponsible behavior by officials during times of danger is unacceptable.
Forcing officials to act contrary to legal provisions, and attempting to proceed by passing resolutions in council meetings when officials refuse, is an improper practice. Leaders must understand that an unlawful act cannot be legitimized by merely passing a resolution in a council. Officials point out legal provisions not to restrict you, but to guide you along the correct path.
It has also come to light that in some councils, resolutions have been passed stating that information provided under the Right to Information Act must be released only with the approval of the Chairmen. This undermines the very essence of that Act. If we are honest and transparent, there is no need to fear providing information. Such unlawful resolutions cannot be permitted,” the Governor stressed.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner of Local Government, Northern Province, Mr. Sambasivam Sutharsan noted that neither the Governor nor the Commissioner has the authority to demolish illegal buildings. That authority rests solely with the local authorities that issue building permits. “We can only provide legal advice. Similarly, demanding the transfer of officials due to disagreements with them is like playing the ‘musical chair’ game. Chairmen must have the leadership ability to work harmoniously and effectively with the available workforce,” he stated.
The workshop, conducted as a series of detailed sessions on national audit procedures, procurement procedures, and the Right to Information Act, was attended by Hon. Mayors, Chairmen, and officials of local authorities in the Northern Province.
