COLOMBO, April 14, 2025 – President of the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka (NOCSL), Suresh Subramaniam, has issued an official clarification asserting that Assistant Secretary Chandana Liyanage has been temporarily suspended, not terminated or removed pending the outcome of ongoing investigations into allegations of financial and administrative irregularities.
The clarification follows the Special General Meeting (SGM) held on April 9, 2025, which saw a boycott by a majority of NOCSL members, who protested what they perceived to be a unilateral action against Mr. Liyanage. The walkout resulted in the meeting being adjourned due to a lack of quorum.
In a detailed letter addressed to the NOCSL membership, President Subramaniam emphasized that the decision to suspend Mr. Liyanage was made in accordance with constitutional provisions and was supported by a majority of the Executive Board during its meeting on April 8. Liyanage, who was present at the meeting, was formally handed the letter of suspension during the session.
“Mr. Liyanage’s position has not been permanently terminated. His suspension is temporary, pending further inquiries into serious allegations involving financial mismanagement and unauthorized communications with international bodies,” Subramaniam wrote.
Subramaniam stressed that the suspension was not indefinite and that Liyanage would be afforded due process, including the opportunity to respond to the allegations at appropriate forums. The action, he said, was consistent with best practices in governance and aligned with IOC directives demanding transparency and integrity within the Olympic movement.
“The continued involvement of a member under investigation would undermine the legitimacy of the inquiry. Temporarily stepping aside is both necessary and appropriate,” he added.
The President also noted that two Executive Board members, who later criticized the suspension, had left the April 8 board meeting early, before the matter was formally discussed under “any other business.”
As part of efforts to maintain the NOCSL’s operational continuity, Subramaniam invoked Article 16(17) of the NOCSL Constitution to appoint an Acting Assistant Secretary, a move that aligns with procedural requirements.
He concluded by urging the full membership to support the organization’s efforts to restore credibility and ensure accountability.
“It is unfortunate that misinformation has spread among members. We must now focus on unity and reform to safeguard the future of Sri Lankan sport,” Subramaniam wrote.
The next Special General Meeting has been rescheduled for April 18, 2025, where the matter is expected to be further deliberated.
Asst. Secretary Chanda Liyanage’s Letter of Suspension found below:
