Sri Lanka Bolsters Anti-Corruption Commission Amidst Controversy

Colombo, Oct 8 (PTI): Sri Lanka is set to strengthen its anti-graft commission by appointing personnel from various government departments and state corporations to boost its efficiency.

This decision follows a statement from the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) Director General Ranga Dissanayake, highlighting the commission's struggle with a lack of resources amidst its growing workload.

According to a cabinet note, the government has resolved to second personnel from the police, audit, provincial government services, and state corporations to CIABOC to enhance its efficiency.

Dissanayake recently pointed out that the commission's staffing is limited to 167, whereas the requirement stands at 967 personnel. He further highlighted that only 65 lawyers were tasked with managing over 4,600 complaints received from January to August this year.

A political controversy has emerged around Dissanayake, with opposition parties accusing him of bias against them, citing his previous affiliation with the ruling National People's Power party's predecessor, the JVP.

The CIABOC, emboldened by a new anti-corruption law adopted in 2023, has intensified its efforts, drawing attention to its aggressive pursuit of cases, predominantly involving opposition politicians and public officials.

There have been multiple arrests of opposition politicians due to CIABOC's investigations.

Dissanayake, currently a High Court judge on secondment, refuted these allegations, while the opposition questioned his appointment as director general.

He emphasized the enhanced independence granted to CIABOC under the 2023 Anti-Corruption Act and called for public support in the fight against corruption.

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