Sri Lanka's Anti-Corruption Chief Rejects Political Bias Claims

Colombo, Oct 2 (PTI): Sri Lanka's leading anti-corruption official, Ranga Dissanayake, has firmly dismissed accusations of his alleged involvement in political activities as "completely false", describing them as part of a malicious campaign designed to damage the reputation of his organization.

Dissanayake, who serves as the Director General of the Commission to Investigate Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), affirmed his commitment to uphold the mandate of the Commission "without fear or favour".

With the empowerment provided by the new anti-corruption law adopted in 2023, the Commission has gained attention for its intensified efforts in prosecuting cases, primarily targeting opposition politicians and public officials.

Since Dissanayake assumed the position of Director General in January this year, several former politicians of high rank have been arrested.

Dissanayake, currently a serving High Court judge on secondment to the Commission, refuted claims made by a former member of the JVP that he had been involved as a committee member of the ruling NPP's predecessor, the JVP.

Labeling the allegations as "completely false", he asserted that they are part of a structured effort to undermine both his work and the mission of CIABOC.

"The motive is quite clear, to tarnish the Commission's image," stated Dissanayake.

He also emphasized the shortage of resources faced by the Commission, highlighting that he has only 169 investigating officers and 31 legal officers to handle an increasing volume of work.

Dissanayake pointed out the CIABOC's requirement of approximately 967 staff, but recruitment has been hindered as the Treasury has halted hiring.

The current NPP government, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, prioritizes its anti-corruption drive as a central element of its governance strategy.

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