Devolution of power in Sri Lanka and good governance: a study on the contribution of Provincial Councils

Abstract

This paper examines devolution of power and good governance in Sri Lanka. Good governance is seen by many as a nebulous concept, which can be interpreted to mean almost anything. However, the board of independent advocacy project has defined good governance as a political and institutional environmental based on respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, human rights and the participation of civil society. Good governance allows responsible economic and financial management of public and natural resources, for the purpose of economic growth, social development and poverty reduction in an equitable and sustainable manner. It encourages the use of clear participatory procedures for public decision making, transparent and accountable institution, primacy of law in the management and distribution of resources. With this there will be effective measures to prevent and combat corruption, support for leadership development, and devolution of power and empower men and women. Since the year 1988 the provincial councilsin Sri Lanka were functioning as agents of central government & during this period the provincial councils became an instrument for people to exercise their sovereignty through universal franchise. Both primary and secondary data are used in the study. Primary data have been collected through methods such as questionnaire survey, rapid appraisal, key informant interview and focus group interview. Sources of secondary information include project reports, official documents and published research reports. The Study was done with reference to Uwa and Western provinces.