Seminar on “Action Plan to Eradicate Corruption: The Way Forward”

A seminar on “Action Plan to Eradicate Corruption: The Way Forward” held recently at the Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA). Hon. Ranga Dissanayake, Director General, Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, and Ms. Sankhitha Gunaratne, Attorney-at Law and Deputy Director and Head, Governance and Anti-Corruption, Verite Research were the expert guest speakers who addressed the audience of professionals at this event.

In his presentation, Justice Dissanayake observed that the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan 2025–2029, included provisions for the establishment of Internal Affairs Units (IAUs) in all public institutions, the creation of a special high court system to expedite corruption-related trials. strengthening inter-agency and international cooperation, revising procurement and financial legislation, and introducing a Proceeds of Crime Act.

Mr. Dissanayake appealed to all politicians, in government and the opposition, not to politicize CIABOC and allow it to discharge its duties impartially and without interference. He also stressed the importance changing the present culture where bribery has become commonplace and accepted by many, resulting in mind-boggling levels of corruption.

Ms. Sankhitha Gunaratne focused on the role of professionals and others in supporting and contributing to corruption. In the question-and-answer session that followed, Mr. Dissanayake noted that that recovering stolen assets was often very difficult as foreign countries are reluctant to divulge details about property ownership. He added that he planned to study the report on the extradition request for former Central Bank Governor, Arjun Mahendran, to find out why it was denied by the Singaporean government.