In a move aimed at strengthening public accountability, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing alleged irregularities at the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) has invited citizens to come forward with complaints and information spanning a 15-year period from 2010 to 2025.
The Commission’s scope covers a wide range of alleged misconduct, including corruption, fraud, criminal breach of trust, abuse or misuse of authority, misuse of State resources and privileges, irregular recruitments and appointments, breaches of procurement procedures, and irregular dealings involving the leasing or renting of movable and immovable properties. It will also scrutinise legal actions and settlements undertaken outside established procedures, as well as any substantial losses or damage to State assets or revenue.
Established by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake under Section 2 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act No. 17 of 1948, the Commission was formally appointed through Extraordinary Gazette Notification No. 2469/08 dated December 30, 2025. Its office is located at No. 152, Galle Road, Colombo 03.
The inquiry is chaired by Attorney-at-Law Piyasena Ranasinghe, a former High Court Judge, with E. R. M. S. H. Ekanayake of the Sri Lanka Accountants’ Service (Grade I) and former Senior Superintendent of Police D. S. Wickramasinghe serving as members.
Beyond reviewing historical records, the Commission has been granted broad powers to receive complaints and information from the public regarding serious allegations against past and present political office-holders, public servants, statutory officers, service providers, and both public and private institutions or individuals. Where necessary, it may also examine serious offences that fall outside the stated time frame if they are deemed to warrant investigation.
The Commission is expected to carry out independent, impartial, and comprehensive inquiries and to recommend legal or administrative action against those found responsible. It will also propose safeguards to prevent similar misconduct in the future.
An interim report is due to be submitted to the Secretary to the President within three months, while the final report, including findings and recommendations, must be handed over within six months.
Written complaints or information may be submitted in Sinhala, Tamil, or English to the Secretary of the Commission at its Colombo 03 address on or before February 23, 2026. Submissions should include the complainant’s name, address, contact telephone numbers, and National Identity Card or passport number, although requests for anonymity will be considered.
Those wishing to make oral submissions may contact the Commission on 011 2 301 735 to arrange an appointment before the February 23 deadline.
