The newly elected gove ment has decided to eliminate the concept of state ministers and instead appoint 26-28 deputy ministers within the next two days, according to Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

Dr. Jayatissa stated that this change aligns with the policy manifesto presented during the election campaign. He confirmed that deputy ministers would not be appointed for all Cabinet portfolios but declined to provide specifics.

He added that Ministry Secretaries would undergo reshuffling, reappointments, or new appointments, with the final decisions yet to be made. However, the gove ment has decided to retain Mahinda Siriwardana as Finance Secretary.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, who was reappointed, resumed his duties yesterday, while Dr. Jayatissa announced plans to commence work at his office today (19).