BASL urges President to appoint Auditor General immediately

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to take immediate action to appoint a permanent Auditor General in line with constitutional requirements, stressing that the delay undermines the integrity of the National Audit Office and erodes public and international confidence in the country’s financial governance.

In a letter, addressed to the President, the BASL expressed serious concern over the continued failure to make a permanent appointment following the retirement of the former Auditor General in April 2025.

The Association noted that the Office of the Auditor General, established under Article 153(1) of the Constitution, plays a critical role in ensuring oversight and accountability across State institutions and constitutionally mandated entities under Article 154. The prolonged absence of a permanent Auditor General, it warned, poses significant risks to the effective functioning of the National Audit Office.

Emphasising the urgency of the matter, the BASL pointed out that Sri Lanka is emerging from a severe financial crisis with support from the International Monetary Fund under the Extended Fund Facility programme, alongside assistance from other international agencies. The country is also receiving foreign financial aid in response to the disaster caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

“In this context, financial accountability and transparency of State institutions are of paramount importance,” the BASL stated, underscoring the need for strong and independent audit oversight.

The BASL further noted that the individual nominated by the President for the post of Auditor General has so far failed to obtain majority approval from the Constitutional Council. As such, the Association stressed the need to appoint a candidate of proven competence, integrity and independence who commands broad acceptance within the Council, rather than a partisan figure.

Such an appointment, the BASL said, would reinforce public trust and international confidence in the National Audit Office and ensure the Auditor General’s constitutional mandate is carried out without compromise.

The letter was signed by BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.

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