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has been cited by the following article:

• TITLE: Post-Colonial Politics and Democratic Change in Local Governance in Sri Lanka

  AUTHORS: Shantha Gamlath

  KEYWORDS: Post-Colonial Politics, Local Governance, Decentralization, Democratic Reform, Sri Lanka, Political Centralization, Grassroots Participation

  JOURNAL NAME: Open Journal of Political Science, Vol.15 No.4, September 29, 2025

  ABSTRACT: This paper critically examines the evolution of local governance in Sri Lanka during the post-colonial period, highlighting the interplay between democratic ideals and centralized political control. Following independence in 1948, successive governments initiated reforms to decentralize authority and enhance grassroots participation. However, these efforts were often undermined by political patronage, elite dominance, and inconsistent policy implementation. The study analyzes key structural reforms, committee recommendations, and the trajectory of local government institutions from independence to the late 1980s. It argues that while early reforms showed promise for participatory democracy, later developments led to the erosion of local autonomy and public trust. The findings underscore the need for genuine political commitment and institutional accountability to revitalize local governance as a foundation for democratic consolidation and equitable development in Sri Lanka.