The local administration of the city is managed by the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC), which is the oldest and largest local government authority in Sri Lanka. The council is headed by a Mayor, who is elected by the public, alongside city council members representing various wards. The CMC is responsible for urban planning, public health, waste management, and local road maintenance.
As the executive capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo is also the seat of national power. Many pivotal government institutions, ministries, the official residence of the President, and the Prime Minister's office are located here. The adjacent municipality of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte houses the national Parliament.
Colombo is part of the Western Province, which has its own Provincial Council dealing with regional administration, education, and health services.
