Former minister Patali Champika Ranawaka delivers a scathing critique of Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma’s appointment as Finance Secretary, calling it an unqualified and politically driven move. He claims the entire ministry is aware of Suriyapperuma’s incompetence and demands accountability in public service appointments.
In a bold statement, former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has slammed the current government for what he describes as a deeply flawed and political appointment to one of the country’s most critical positions—Secretary to the Ministry of Finance. He claims that Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, the newly appointed Finance Secretary, is not qualified for the role and accuses the administration of breaking its promise to depoliticize the public service.
Ranawaka emphasized that Dr. Suriyapperuma, allegedly a member of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), has previously faced serious accusations related to stock market activities. “This is a clear political appointment,” he stated, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for the integrity and independence of the public service.
The former minister went further, claiming that even within the Finance Ministry itself, there is widespread recognition that Dr. Suriyapperuma lacks the experience, technical skills, and administrative acumen required to lead such a crucial institution. “In the past few months, he has proven incapable,” Ranawaka declared.
He also questioned why a qualified candidate couldn’t be selected from within the Finance Ministry or the Public Administration Service. “Is there truly no one else with the competence and merit to hold this office?” he asked.
The controversy underscores ongoing concerns about political interference in Sri Lanka’s public institutions and raises urgent questions about transparency, merit-based recruitment, and the professional standards of those entrusted with steering the country’s economic recovery.
