Grand Promises, Empty Houses: State Bungalows Lie Idle

NPP's Pre-Election Plan to Repurpose Colonial-Era Bungalows Yet to Materialize

Despite ambitious promises made ahead of last year's presidential election, dozens of colonial-era state bungalows once used by ministers remain empty and unused, raising questions about the government’s commitment to turning public assets into economically productive spaces.

Seven Months Later, No Clear Plan in Sight

More than seven months have passed since the election that brought the National People’s Power (NPP) into office, but the pledged repurposing of former ministerial residences has stalled. Neither the government nor the Public Administration Ministry has finalized a strategy for converting the properties into revenue-generating ventures.

From Power to Potential: 50 Historic Bungalows in Limbo

Previously, 31 state bungalows — many built in the latter colonial period — were assigned to cabinet and state ministers. Now, according to Public Administration Minister Prof. Chandana Abayaratne, around 50 such residences have been identified, with nearly 30 large enough to host economic or diplomatic functions.

“These bungalows could serve a variety of purposes, including tourism or foreign missions,” said the Minister. “But we are still evaluating the requests before making final decisions.”

Tourism, Diplomacy, or Public Use? No Final Word

The properties have drawn interest from various quarters, including government institutions, the Election Commission, and even foreign diplomatic missions. However, formal allocation has yet to begin, as authorities await completion of the valuation process and further review.

Minimal Maintenance, Maximum Wasted Potential

While the Minister maintains that upkeep costs are “minimal,” the security presence guarding valuable items stored within the properties continues — a silent reminder of their dormant state. Smaller bungalows are said to be earmarked for “small-scale” public activities, though details remain vague.

From Political Symbolism to Policy Paralysis?

The idle state of these prestigious homes, once centers of political power, now symbolizes an administrative pause. The delay casts a shadow over a key election promise — one aimed at cutting waste and rechanneling state resources for economic recovery.

As pressure mounts, critics argue that without swift action, what was once a bold pledge risks fading into yet another missed opportunity.