Sri Lanka’s parliament has voted to abolish pensions for all legislators and their widows, repealing a 49-year-old law as part of sweeping reforms to curb political privileges.

The 225-member House passed the measure with 154 votes in favour and two against. Justice Minister Harsana Nanayakkara said public confidence in lawmakers had declined, arguing they did not deserve lifetime pensions.

Under the previous law, MPs qualified for pensions after five years in office. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa opposed the move, warning that removing pensions could increase the risk of corruption.

The reform follows earlier steps by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to slash benefits for former leaders, including housing and security privileges. According to AFP, the measures are part of a broader effort to restore public trust and reduce state spending after years of economic turmoil.

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