Sri Lanka is facing a significant issue with fraud and corruption, particularly in the government sector, which has seen a marked increase. According to a global official survey conducted with 180 countries, Sri Lanka ranked 115th in 2023, dropping 13 places from its 102nd position in 2022. This indicates a worsening situation within a year.
In Sri Lanka, the punishment for those caught in large-scale corruption and fraud is minimal. Offenders often escape blacklisting and may commit fraud again. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recommended the formulation of new laws to combat fraud and corruption in the public sector, which is a positive step. However, these new rules must be strictly enforced.
Mr. Pratibha Mahanamaheva, a Senior Professor at Colombo University and a renowned legal expert, highlighted these issues. He shared his insights at a recent conference in Colombo titled “Combating Frauds and Corruption of Public Procurement through Legislation.” The event was jointly organized by the Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka and the Institute of Supply and Materials Management.
Professor Mahanamaheva and Mr. Ivan Thisera, a former Additional Director General of the Ministry of Finance and procurement process expert, delivered the main lectures. The workshop was chaired by Mr. Jayantha Galleheva, President of ISMM Organization, and Mr. Sarath Gamage, President of OPA Organization. Chief Secretary Thisara de Silva and Chairman of the Shifa Committee I.G. Perera also participated in conducting the conference.
