By Huzefa Aliasger Courtesy The Daily Mirror

Colombo, Feb 07 (Daily Mirror) – In the wake of the Daily Mirror report over political appointments to diplomatic Missions, the Sri Lanka Foreign Service Association (SLFSA) expressed deep concern that several recent appointments to Head of Mission (HOM) positions have been made from outside the Sri Lanka Foreign Service (SLFS), disregarding the established norms of professionalism, meritocracy, and diplomatic expertise.

In a media release the SLFSA says, “The SLFSA expresses its strong disappointment over these appointments, which have overlooked experienced, highly qualified, and career Foreign Service Officers who have dedicated their careers to representing Sri Lanka on the global stage. The Sri Lanka Foreign Service is a specialised cadre, trained specifically to execute the country’s foreign policy and safeguard its international interests. Bypassing career diplomats in favour of political appointees weakens institutional integrity and compromises Sri Lanka’s diplomatic standing.”

The SLFSA further mentions the decision is particularly alarming, as it directly contradicts the Government of Sri Lanka’s 2024 election manifesto, which pledged to: “Appointing professional career diplomats, with a proven track record to head Sri Lanka’s missions. Appointing qualified officers for Foreign Service on merit basis with professional excellence, with the highest standards of ethical conduct and diplomatic discretion.” Immediate remedial action must be taken to depoliticise the Foreign Service and make appointments on merit.”

The media release further states despite these commitments, the continuation of politically motivated appointments undermines the integrity of Sri Lanka’s diplomatic corps and demotivates career diplomats who have undergone rigorous training and have extensive international experience. There is a longstanding and regrettable precedent of ambassadorial and diplomatic positions being awarded as political favours by successive governments. The SLFSA had hoped that this practice would end, allowing for a stronger, more independent Foreign Service that serves the best interests of Sri Lanka rather than political affiliations. The continuation of this trend is a matter of grave concern, not only for the Foreign Service but for the country as a whole.

The Association has made repeated requests for meetings with the President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism to discuss these concerns. However, despite multiple follow-ups, an opportunity for engagement has not yet been granted. The SLFSA will continue to pursue these meetings.