Politicians who insult or undermine the Bribery and Corruption Investigation Commission may face legal action under the newly enacted Anti-Corruption Act No. 9 of 2023, warned Ranga Dissanayake, a senior official involved in its implementation.
He explained that Section 118 of the Act allows legal action to be filed in the Supreme Court against any individual whose statements amount to an insult against the Commission. He made it clear that this provision would be enforced without hesitation. Dissanayake said he is observing closely and will act if any politician crosses the line.
Dissanayake called on political figures, particularly those claiming that the Commission’s actions are politically motivated, to properly read and understand the legislation that many of them themselves helped pass in Parliament. He emphasized that the law was designed to ensure the Commission’s independence and remove it from government influence.
He further revealed that the Commission has already initiated investigations into 300 complaints involving large-scale corruption and fraud, many of which had been left untouched for years. A significant number of these cases involve former ministers and high-ranking officials. Investigations are now moving swiftly, and those found guilty will be held accountable under the law.
According to Dissanayake, the Commission will undergo a major transformation by March 1, 2026, with powers being decentralized and offices being established at the district level to better conduct investigations across the country. He stressed that the Commission operates independently of any government ministry. Its budget is submitted directly to Parliament, and it has its own appointed staff, as stipulated in Section 26 of the Act.
He described the new anti-corruption law as one of the strongest in the region, designed after reviewing international models such as those in Hong Kong, and stressed that its implementation is not subject to political interference.
Dissanayake also addressed public skepticism, acknowledging that many people believe only minor offenders are punished while major offenders escape. He assured that this perception is being corrected through the current legal framework and active investigations. Quoting the President’s earlier statement on Anti-Corruption Day, he said that under the new system, the days of “small animals getting caught while big animals break through the net” are over.
He concluded by stating that whether people like the law or not, it has been passed and must be enforced. The Commission will operate without fear or favor, and efforts to undermine its authority will not be tolerated.
