Sri Lankan expatriate workers in Dubai are expressing frustration and dissatisfaction with the substandard services they receive from the Sri Lankan Consulate, currently overseen by Consul General Alexi Gunasekara. Reports suggest that Gunasekara is running the consulate in a high-handed and dismissive manner, treating it as if it were his private enterprise rather than a public institution.
Allegations have surfaced that Consul General Gunasekara is flaunting diplomatic protocols, including the inappropriate display of the Sri Lankan flag on his car, an honor traditionally reserved for the Sri Lankan Ambassador stationed in Abu Dhabi. This breach of protocol has raised eyebrows, with many attributing his and his wife Shobhini’s behavior to his close personal ties with Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardena.
The relationship between the Gunasekaras and Foreign Secretary Wijewardena is seen as a key factor in this disregard for diplomatic norms.
There are claims that during her visits to Dubai, Foreign Secretary Wijewardena spends more time socializing with the Gunasekaras at the expensive and luxurious house at the Emirates Hills that has been rented off taxpayer-funds, further adding to the frustration of Sri Lankans abroad.
In stark contrast, Sri Lankan expatriates who visit the embassy in Abu Dhabi report much higher service standards, with many opting to travel the extra distance to receive better treatment. The poor ratings of the Dubai Consulate’s services have left many expatriates disappointed, further damaging the consulate’s reputation.
Sri Lankan expatriates are calling on the Foreign Ministry to take these concerns seriously and investigate the Consulate General’s conduct and overall service quality in Dubai. The community’s grievances need to be addressed promptly to restore confidence in the consulate’s ability to serve Sri Lankan nationals living in the UAE.
Many long-term Sri Lankan expatriates in the UAE have expressed deep disappointment with the declining standards of service under the current Consul General, Alexi Gunasekara.
Speaking to The Morning Telegraph, one expatriate remarked, “Despite the already deplorable services at the Consulate, the Consul General acts as though he is some kind of god. He seems to have forgotten the core responsibility of his role, which is to serve the Sri Lankan expatriate community in Dubai and not the other way around. He seems to be getting away with everything due to his connections! It’s widely known that he is the Foreign Secretary’s favorite, often seen flaunting diplomatic norms and engaging in activities like shopping with the Consul General. Many expatriates are baffled by the fact that he was granted a luxurious villa in Emirates Hills, especially when the country is in the midst of a financial crisis. It raises serious questions about how he manages to secure approval for his extravagant lifestyle.”
“His inappropriate behavior with female officers attached to the consulate has left many expats shocked and dismayed. When inquiries were made in Colombo, the response was that certain individuals are protected and immune from any consequences. It may be time for the new regime to take serious action, especially considering how crucial the UAE is to Sri Lanka’s diplomatic and economic interests.”
In a voice recording, a Sri Lankan national expresses dissatisfaction with the service at the Dubai Consulate and praises the excellent service at the Sri Lankan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, urging immediate action to address the issue.
Listen to the audio below.
Editor’s Note (7:15 hrs – 3rd October 2024):
As part of our correction policy, we would like to issue the following clarification after conducting a further fact check, prompted by numerous calls and messages received by the news desk following the publication of the original story.
1. On her most recent trip to Dubai, Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardena was in transit at the airport and did not visit the residence of Alexis Gunasekara.
It seems that this article is to re-pisition the Abu Dhabi based Ambassador who is the henchman of former president GR . Alexi Gunasekara is a very talented officer and the main objective of Dubai Consulate is promotion of trade.
What a article it seems like some one overwhelming own thoughts cause Mr.Alexi Gunasekara is a challenge for their work. He getting all the blames cause he doing work to people and country if he also wait and watch what others do and make his name promote by others money this will not happened. Mr.Alexi is a
positive and encouraging leader with a vision..so keep your all good work and support Sri Lankans more.
It is clear that there can be no doubt regarding Alexia’s behavior, as he has demonstrated a troubling pattern of conduct in multiple countries, including China. He has been involved in numerous rackets there, and credible reports against him highlight this troubling history and the present situation.
Alexi Gunasekara has gained notoriety for his womanizing ways throughout the various positions he has held. His connections, particularly with former Minister John Amarathunga, raise further questions about his suitability for government service.
An investigation into his activities in China, France, and Dubai—locations where he has served—could potentially uncover the full extent of his actions. It is a significant oversight to have chosen such individuals for positions of responsibility within any government.
Dear Readers,
I am writing in response to the serious allegations highlighted in the above article regarding the conduct of my Consul General and the operations of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai.
It is crucial to clarify that according to my knowledge the claims made lack credibility. Mr. Alexi Gunasekera as a seasoned professional officer and in his capacity as Consul General, remains fully committed to his official duties and responsibilities.
I urge all parties to engage in constructive dialogue rather than spreading baseless allegations, as this is essential for improving our services at both the Embassy and the Consulate for the 350,000 plus Sri Lankans living in UAE. Misinformation undermines the efforts of our institutions and their ability to serve the public effectively.
Thank you for your attention.
Udaya Indrarathna
Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the UAE
This is a classic example of the SLn media’s “let’s publish first and check facts later” strategy! They seem to have a PhD in posting whatever nonsense lands in their inbox. It’s like they’re playing a game of “telephone” but with a megaphone! Any Sri Lankan living in Dubai will vouch for his great work and innovation that he has done for the Consulate.
School time joke!!!!
I am in Dubai for over 35 years and I have met all Counsel Generals who are been stationed in Dubai. Whereas, since the arrival of Mr. Alexi in Dubai, he has done a lot to the Sri Lankan community. I have never seen other Counsel Generals in the past contribute as such to the Sri Lankan community in Dubai. Mr.
Alexi is a simple and down to earth person who can be approached at any given time, which any man will agree as well. His service to the community is very commendable.
These allegations are baseless and purely mud-slinging.
I believe Alexi Gunasekara is the best person in the Sri Lankan community in Dubai. After thirty years in the UAE, I’ve never met anyone as down-to-earth and genuine. His work and results in such a short time period speak volumes.
Really, our Consul General, Mr. Alexi, along with the dedicated staff at the Dubai embassy, has consistently gone above and beyond in serving our community. Their tireless efforts, professionalism, and commitment are evident in the exceptional services they provide daily. Rumors that seek to undermine their hard work are baseless and unfounded. We stand behind our embassy’s leadership, knowing they always prioritize the well-being and support of our community.