Namal Rajapaksa Calls for Investigation into USAID-Funded Projects in Sri Lanka

Namal Rajapaksa raised alarms following allegations in Western media that USAID funds have been misused in various countries, contributing to instability under the guise of humanitarian aid.

He pointed out that Sri Lanka has received millions of dollars from USAID in recent years, benefiting over 100 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), politicians, and media figures. He emphasized the lack of clear accounting and transparency regarding the allocation and use of these funds, calling for a comprehensive probe into the operations of USAID-funded projects in the country.

“I call upon the government to conduct a probe on these projects and grants operated under USAID and present a detailed report to Parliament. A detailed account on these NGOs who benefitted from them must also be submitted,” Rajapaksa said in his post.

The MP also highlighted the long-awaited need for regulations on NGO financing, which he stated has been discussed for years but remains unaddressed. He urged the government to implement these regulations to ensure transparency in how foreign aid is used within Sri Lanka.

“Regulations for financing NGOs have been on the cards for many years but it has not yet been done. I request the government to bring in these regulations to maintain transparency,” Rajapaksa added.

His call for a government probe into USAID operations and greater oversight of foreign aid comes at a time of growing scrutiny over the role of international organizations in Sri Lanka’s political and economic landscape.