Chief ministers in Sri Lanka are elected heads of the provincial boards of ministers, bodies which aid and advice the governors, the heads of the provincial government, in the exercise of their executive power. The governor appoints as chief minister a member of the provincial council who, in his opinion, commands the support of a majority of that council. There are nine chief ministerial positions in the country, all nine are currently vacant and under the governor's direct rule.

Appointment

A governor may appoint a chief minister, who would be the leader of the political party that commands the majority of the provincial council.

Duties

The duties of the chief minister includes;

Salary

As per the Provincial Councils (Payment of Salaries and Allowances) Act, No. 37 of 1988, the chief minister is entitled to monthly salary and allowances equal of the governor, less than fifty rupees. In addition, since all chief ministers are members of provincial council they are entitled to allowances and benefits of provincial councilor.

Incumbent chief ministers