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The Influence of Political Leaders on Administrative Service Officers in Sri Lanka A pervasive issue in Sri Lanka is the attitude of many government leaders who believe that oral orders should supersede existing written laws and circulars. This phenomenon has prompted me to write an academic article on this subject. A prevailing political opinion in Sri Lanka suggests that government officials should unquestionably accept and implement oral orders from leaders, disregarding the established legal framework and official circulars. Recall the “Village Reconciliation”  ( “ගම සමග පිළිසඳරක්”      )    program initiated after Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa became President. During its first progress review on April 26, 2021, a villager lodged a complaint with the President. “Sir, despite your prior directive, the Haldummulla Divisional Secretary has not issued us a land license. When we attempt to clear the area, we encounter forest officers and face legal consequences.” The villager filed a complaint against the Divisional Secretary. ...