Deputy Minister of Defence, retired Major General Aruna Jayasekara, has noted a growing trend of personnel leaving the armed forces. He attributed this to several factors, including excessive workloads, long periods of service, and the availability of better employment opportunities outside the military.
Member of Parliament, retired Major General G. D.Suriyabandaea … He stated this while responding to a question raised by Suriyabandara in Parliament yesterday.
Deputy Minister of Defence Jayasekara pointed out that several factors contribute to this trend, including the desire among personnel to pursue foreign employment or educational opportunities, seek better jobs in the civilian sector, or transition into professions that better align with their professional qualifications and skills. He added that the availability of higher-income opportunities in the private sector is another contributing factor.
Furthermore, he noted that excessive workloads and the requirement for long hours of service are reasons that drive some individuals to leave the military.
Other factors include increased financial responsibilities toward their families, postings to difficult areas that necessitate living apart from their families, and a desire to prioritize marriage and family life.
Deputy Minister of Defence Jayasekara also clarified the legal position regarding military personnel who leave the service without authorization—specifically those who abandon their duties to go abroad.