Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption watchdog has launched a sweeping investigation into the unexplained wealth of six serving ministers, raising fresh questions about asset declarations, transparency, and accountability within the current government.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption has decided to initiate a comprehensive investigation into undeclared assets involving six ministers of the present administration under the provisions of the Money Laundering Act.
According to the Commission, the probe will focus on how assets allegedly linked to five cabinet ministers and one deputy minister were acquired, and whether these assets were properly declared in line with the law. The investigation seeks to establish the source of funds and assess whether any financial misconduct or illicit enrichment has taken place.
The Bribery Commission has named cabinet ministers Bimal Ratnayake, Wasantha Samarasinghe, Kumara Jayakody, Sunil Handunnetti, and Nalinda Jayatissa, along with Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala, as subjects of the inquiry. The decision marks one of the most significant anti-corruption actions involving sitting members of the government in recent times.
Officials state that the investigations were initiated following a formal complaint submitted to the Commission by Jamuni Kamantha Thushara, Chairman of the organisation Citizens’ Power Against Corruption and Waste. The complaint reportedly raised concerns over the scale of assets held by the ministers and questioned whether their wealth was consistent with their declared income and public service positions.
As part of the ongoing process, Jamuni Kamantha Thushara has been requested to appear before the Commission the day after tomorrow (30th) to provide a detailed statement and supporting information related to the complaint.
The Commission emphasised that the investigation will be conducted independently and in accordance with the law, underscoring the importance of financial transparency, accountability, and public trust in governance. The outcome of the probe is expected to have significant political and legal implications.
