Opposition gains financial muscle in NPP-controlled CMC View(s):In yet another example of just how unpredictable the situation at the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) can be, the National People’s Power (NPP) on Wednesday failed to win control of the all-powerful Finance Committee, with all five positions that are chosen by election being won by the so-called ‘combined opposition’. Wednesday saw members being elected to 23 standing committees of the CMC. A total of 114 councillors were present and voted during the elections, with three others being absent on the day. There are six members on the CMC’s Finance Committee, with the Mayor being appointed as chairperson in an ex-officio capacity. Accordingly, a secret ballot was held among the 114 members who were present to elect members for the remaining five positions.

Source: Sunday Times January 17, 2026 19:33 UTC