The president, as the defence minister, is yet to notify chief of defence staff Shavendra Silva and commanders of the tri-forces about their future.
On 31 December, Gen. Silva and the Army, Air Force and Navy chiefs complete the service extensions they have been given.
Silva, appointed CDF in 2020 concurrent to his Army commander position, is over 60 years of age now.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage completes 57 years on 31 December.
Navy commander Vice Admiral Priyantha too was given an extension following his appointment on 18 December 2022.
Air Marshal Udeni Rajapakse completes 56 years on 29 January next year.
The CDF position has so far been filled by a retiring tri-forces commander.
According to Defence Ministry sources, the president has not yet notified if he will continue with that practice or do away with that position.
In the event Liyanage is not given an extension as the Army chief, leading contenders for the position are the incumbent chief of staff of the Army Maj. Gen. Dinesh Nanayakkara, his deputy Maj. Gen. Lasantha Rodrigo and Gajaba Regiment’s Maj. Gen. Chandana Wickremasinghe.
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