Colombo, July 31, 2025 —
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, vowing to transform Sri Lanka into a country where the very notion of bribery becomes unthinkable. Speaking at a public event in Colombo on Wednesday, the President issued a stern warning to those who have exploited public office for personal gain, stating that some offenders could face punishments “lasting several lifetimes.”
The remarks come as the government accelerates a sweeping anti-corruption agenda aimed at restoring public trust in state institutions. Without naming specific individuals, the President signaled that accountability will extend to powerful figures who have long evaded justice.
“We are not here to manage corruption — we are here to eradicate it,” President Anura Kumara said. “Those who believed the system would always protect them will now face the full weight of the law.”
Since taking office, the President has tasked the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) and other law enforcement agencies with pursuing long-pending investigations. Several senior officials and political associates are reportedly under scrutiny, with indictments expected in the coming months.
The administration is also preparing legislative reforms to streamline judicial procedures in corruption cases and increase penalties for public officials found guilty of misconduct. A key element of the plan includes the digitisation of public procurement processes and mandatory asset declarations for all high-ranking government officials.
Public response to the President’s hardline message has been largely positive, with civil society organisations and business leaders expressing support for greater transparency and accountability.
If fully implemented, the government’s anti-corruption drive would mark one of the most ambitious clean governance initiatives in Sri Lanka’s post-independence history.
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