May 18, LNW (Colombo): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is expected to appoint a new Governor for the Western Province before May 25, 2026, facilitating the exit of incumbent Hanif Yusoof, inside sources have revealed.
Yusoof recently submitted his resignation as Governor to focus on his role as Special Envoy for Foreign Direct Investments. However, the same sources indicate that the President may not continue Yusoof’s services in that capacity either, as the government is planning a broader restructuring of the Board of Investment leadership and the overall investment framework.
This has fueled intense political speculation about Yusoof’s complete exit from state positions.
Meanwhile, political rumours are floating that Eran Wickramratne, former SJB senior leader, economist, who is also a former CEO of NDB Bank and the current interim chairman of Sri Lanka Cricket, has emerged as a frontrunner to replace Yusoof.
However, it is widely expected that Yusoof’s successor will be from the Muslim community, maintaining the community’s representation in the Western Province Governor’s post.
Canvassing is already taking place to appoint former Governor and former Mayor of Colombo, A.J.M. Muzammil, as a potential candidate.
Inside sources refused to comment on specific names, stating only that the President will take a final decision before May 25, 2026.
Until then, the Western Province remains in administrative transition.