Date: October 15, 2024 – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake underscored the pressing issues of corruption and waste in governance during a progress review meeting held at the Ministry of Energy on October 15. This meeting gathered key officials to discuss ongoing projects and the future of the energy sector in Sri Lanka.
The president pointed out that public perception is heavily influenced by the belief that the country’s economic downfall is a result of widespread fraud and mismanagement. He stated, “The people have expressed their expectations through their vote in the recent presidential election, and it is our responsibility to be accountable to that mandate.”
Dissanayake highlighted the significant role that the energy sector plays in the nation’s economy, paralleling its importance with that seen in other countries. He noted, “The energy sector is a ministry where financial profits can be made, and this creates a discourse in society about the potential for irregularities when profits are high.” He emphasized that the public wealth should be regarded as a collective resource and that it must be safeguarded against corruption.
The president’s remarks come at a time when the citizens have shown a strong desire for political change, particularly in light of ongoing economic hardships. He noted that dissatisfaction with the previous political regime and its handling of economic issues has led citizens to embrace a new political culture. “This new political tradition carries with it a strong expectation of integrity and accountability,” he said.
Dissanayake urged government employees to remain dedicated to their duties, reinforcing that their role is essential for building an effective public service that meets the needs of the populace. “Public servants must act responsibly to fulfill the expectations tied to this mandate,” he stressed. He also expressed his commitment to support every citizen-focused initiative undertaken by public servants, assuring them that he would take appropriate actions against any misconduct.
The meeting included an extensive review of current and planned energy projects, assessing how to meet the sector’s objectives over the next three years. Participants discussed strategies for both immediate and long-term relief measures for the people, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing energy needs and challenges.
Key officials present at the meeting included Energy Ministry Secretary Professor Udayanga Hemapala, Chairman of the Ceylon Electricity Board Dr. Tilak Siambalapitiya, and several other senior officials from the Ministry of Energy. Together, they explored the critical tasks ahead and how to effectively implement the government’s energy policies while ensuring transparency and accountability in operations.
In conclusion, President Dissanayake’s address highlighted the need for a renewed commitment to integrity in governance as Sri Lanka navigates its economic recovery. The emphasis on public accountability and ethical governance aims to rebuild trust between the government and its citizens, paving the way for a more resilient and transparent administration.
