SriLankan Airlines CEO Suren Ratwatte was asked to step down following a Board meeting on Thursday. According to government officials, Manoj Gunawardena is tipped to be the hot favourite to take over from Ratawatte.
The move comes amidst plans to restructure the troubled national carrier, with its Chairman and Board of Directors expected to step down once the Government finalises the reform agenda.
When asked about the changes, a member of the Board said: “decisions on restructuring and changes in personnel need the approval of the ministerial committee under the Prime Minister which includes the line Minister.”
The appointment will be finalised during next week’s board meeting upon Company Chairman Ajit Dias’ return to the country.
SriLankan Airline employee unions had repeatedly called for Ratwatte’s removal from the post amidst claims that he was unable to keep the cash-strapped airline from taking a nosedive. The Unions were receptive to the possibility of Guwardene’s appointment.