Sri Lanka has been following the essence of representative democracy since the British Colonial period. In addition to the legislature the executive plays a major role in Sri Lanka. We have passed several milestones in executive structure, such as the Seven Executive Committees (Ministries) operated under Donoughmore Constitutional Reforms. These Executive Committees were clearly indicated in the Constitution itself.
Today, the Executive Power is vested on the President and this power is exercised through the Cabinet. The ultimate objective of the Cabinet of Ministers is the policy formulation for the governance of the country.
The responsibility of the Secretary of each Ministry is to assist for the practical implementation of the policy as approved by the Cabinet. The Secretary to the Ministry shall subject to the directions of his Minister exercise supervision over the Departments of government or other institutions in charge of his Minister.