Chairman of the Committee on Public Finance (COPF), MP Harsha de Silva, has formally raised concerns with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake over the lack of an Auditor General at a critical post-disaster juncture, describing the situation as deeply troubling.
In a letter addressed to the President, MP de Silva pointed out that the government has already established the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund’, but questioned how financial accountability can be ensured in the absence of an Auditor General. He stressed that effective auditing would only be possible if the fund is formally brought under parliamentary oversight and monitored by a duly appointed Auditor General.
Highlighting constitutional provisions, de Silva reminded the President that authority over public finances rests with Parliament under Article 148 of the Constitution. He therefore urged the immediate appointment of an Auditor General to safeguard transparency and fiscal discipline, particularly in relation to disaster recovery funds.
Speaking to the media, de Silva said he had been informed by the President’s Secretary that the letter had been received, but noted that no action has been taken so far. He added that the concerns were conveyed following consultations with other members of the COPF.
The issue has gained urgency following the expiration of the acting Auditor General’s term on December 6. Efforts to appoint a permanent Auditor General have stalled after several nominees proposed by the President were rejected by the Constitutional Council, leaving the key oversight position vacant.
Leave your comments
Login to post a comment
Post comment as a guest