Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) notes with dismay the media reports suggesting a move by the government to abolish the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) and Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The gravity of this unwise move must be understood in the back drop of the recent revealing reporting by the COPE on scandals in major public institutions. This can undoubtedly be seen as yet another move by collusive forces to strike down effective parliamentary oversight that challenges corruption involving these very forces.
Many studies conducted in the past have recommended that the government strengthen the parliamentary oversight committees. If the government is keen to strengthen the oversight, it could first introduce a permanent budget committee, in addition to the existing committees. Any move to abolish the existing COPE at the present juncture would convey a clear message that no oversight committee could address corruption issues, independently and fearlessly. This would further weaken the already degenerated accountability framework of the country, while perpetuating grand corruption at the highest level of government.
TISL believes that it is the primary responsibility of the President, Party Representatives and Members of Parliament to strongly resist the proposed abolition. Further, we believe that public should also strongly voice out against this questionable move, not merely because of its inherently flawed intentions but due to its consequent adverse impact on the public.
For Transparency International Sri Lanka
J.C. Weliamuna
Executive Director
To support this case, please click here: SEND APPEAL LETTER
SAMPLE LETTER
