The National People’s Power (NPP) has officially taken control of the Seethawaka Pradeshiya Sabha, ending a six-month stalemate following the May Local Government election.

Although the NPP won 23 seats at the election, no party secured a clear majority, causing repeated delays in electing office-bearers. Meetings held on June 17 and July 15 were postponed due to procedural disputes.

The council reconvened today, where members first decided on conducting a secret ballot to elect the Chairman.

All 23 NPP members and one member of the Sarvajana Balaya supported the move, prompting the remaining 23 opposition members to walk out.

A vote was then held, and P. K. Premarathna of the NPP was elected Chairman with 23 votes. The Sarvajana Balaya member abstained from voting in the final selection.