News

Sagala emphasises on accountability of public officials

Published

2 years ago

March 21, 2023

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Recovering from the challenging situation that the country is currently facing, requires a significant emphasis on the accountability of public officials in matters such as financial control, anti-corruption measures, and adherence to the rule of law, pointed out Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of the Presidential Staff – Mr. Sagala Ratnayake.

Mr. Ratnayake said this during a discussion held yesterday (20) at the Ministry of Finance Auditorium with representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Heads of Government institutions.

During the meeting, the representatives of the International Monetary Fund appreciated the Sri Lankan Government’s efforts in addressing the existing problem and properly assessing the current situation. They also emphasized the significance of working with dedication in financial management and implementing new economic reforms.

The representatives stressed that it is crucial to prioritize new reform programs rather than dwelling on past mistakes. They also highlighted the importance of exploring the support that the International Monetary Fund can offer to address the challenges in various fields and to prioritize reform efforts accordingly.

Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana, the Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, emphasized the crucial role of new economic reforms in propelling the country forward. He stated that public financial reforms and other related areas will be prioritized to effectively address the issues in the financial management sector.

During the meeting, the Heads of Government institutions involved in the process shared their perspectives.

Mr. Sagala Ratnayake reiterated the significance of convening such meetings in the future to monitor the progress of relevant programs and obtain reports. He stressed the need for the commitment of all Heads of government institutions to ensure the success of these activities.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the International Monetary Fund, the Governor of the Central Bank Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, as well as secretaries of ministries, Heads of Government institutions, and other officials.

News

CoI on Deshabandu concludes examining evidence by both parties

Published

4 hours ago

July 2, 2025

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The examination of evidence by both the Respondent and the Prosecution before the Committee of Inquiry concluded.

The Committee recommends that both parties submit their written submissions to the Committee of Inquiry before 3:30 p.m. on the 8th of July.

Examining evidence before the Committee of Inquiry to inquire and report its findings on IGP T.M.W. Deshabandu Tennakoon in respect of acts of gross abuse of power, concluded yesterday (July 01), with the presentation of evidence by both the Respondent, representing Inspector General of Police Deshabandu Tennakoon and the Prosecution.

The Committee of Inquiry, chaired by Supreme Court Judge P.P. Surasena and comprising Justice W.M.N.P. Iddawala and E.W.M. Lalith Ekanayake, Chairman, National Police Commission, convened today, during which, testimonies were obtained from two additional witnesses by the Prosecution.

These two witnesses had been overseas on official duty. Thus, in accordance with the prior agreement between the two parties, reached to obtain the evidence post June 26, held before the Committee of Inquiry with the participation of Additional Solicitor General (President’s Counsel) Dileepa Peiris and

Deputy Solicitor General Rajitha Perera, representing the Attorney General’s Department, and R.S. Weerawickrama Attorney-at-Law, appearing on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, it was decided to record the statements of these two witnesses today.Furthermore, both the Prosecution in representation of the Attorney General’s Department and the Respondent Inspector General of Police agreed to submit their respective written submissions to the Committee of Inquiry before 3:30 p.m. on July 08, 2025.

News

Govt to present 2026 Appropriation Bill in October

Published

7 hours ago

July 2, 2025

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Cabinet approval has been granted to a proposal presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his capacity as Minister of Finance , Planning and Economic Development to present the Appropriation Bill for the year 2026 to Parliament in October 2025.

Approval has also been granted to present the Budget speech in November 2025 and to hold the third reading and budget debate during November and December.