Opposition MP Dr. Harsha de Silva has raised concerns over the dual role of Duminda Hulangamuwa, who serves as both the local managing partner of Ernst & Young (EY) in Sri Lanka and a senior economic advisor to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The MP has highlighted that holding both positions creates a significant “conflict of interest.”
In a post on his social media platform, Dr. Harsha de Silva stated that it is problematic for Hulangamuwa to have access to sensitive data and strategies related to Sri Lanka’s ongoing discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) while leading one of the largest financial advisory firms in the country.
“If EY were an apple juice company, it would be fine. But he himself says it’s the largest financial advisory company in Sri Lanka,” Dr. de Silva remarked.
In response, Duminda Hulangamuwa recently clarified during a television interview with Derana that he sees no conflict of interest in his current roles.
He explained that employees at his firm were unaware of the tax policy changes until the President publicly announced them and assured that sensitive information is not shared with clients.
Hulangamuwa also serves as the Chairman of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
