The prolonged vacancy of Sri Lanka’s Auditor General post has sparked fresh criticism from Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa, who accused the government of deliberately delaying the appointment to shield corruption. Some ministers have reportedly criticized the Constitutional Council after the President’s attempt to appoint a close associate to the position was blocked
The Auditor General’s position has remained unfilled for eight months, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability in government operations.
Rajapaksa linked the delay to ongoing corrupt activities, citing irregularities in import tenders, the unauthorized removal of 323 containers from the port, and investigations into substandard medicines. He alleged that powerful individuals within the government are attempting to place a friend in the role to protect vested interests.
The MP also warned that the absence of an Auditor General could jeopardize Sri Lanka’s access to foreign aid. “Loans and assistance from international organizations such as the World Bank, IMF, and Asian Development Bank require proper audits. Without an Auditor General, these critical funds are at risk,” he said.
Rajapaksa urged the government to act swiftly, emphasizing that the delay threatens both the country’s governance standards and its international credibility.
