The Hon. Rohana Bandara

¶ 01 Mr. Presiding Member, I thank Hon. Thushari Jayasingha for bringing a timely Adjournment Motion. Preventing bribery, corruption, fraud and theft is the aspiration of every citizen, and essential to a clean State.

¶ 02 However, do not be overly excited. You assumed State power in 2024, when Sri Lanka was ranked 121 in the CPI. From there, the country has advanced 14 places in 2025. But during earlier UNP governments we were ranked in the 50s; later it fell—to 89 in the final phase of the yahapalana government—and then to 121 in 2024, before rising by 14. So while there is improvement, there is further to go.

¶ 03 To move up more, investigate matters such as the container-related irregularities, coal procurement issues, importation of potatoes and onions, anomalies in salt imports, and losses from data manipulation in certain sectors. Also consider yesterday’s incident: on 2 February, when action was being pursued regarding an alleged fraud at Sri Lanka Telecom involving Sudarshana Geeganage, persons reportedly forced entry into the residence of the Head of Sales, Kumudu Abeydeera, and seized his phone and other devices. A complaint was recorded, yet there is silence now. Such alleged data thefts have serious implications, especially for companies like Mobitel. Please look into this.

¶ 04 Additionally, review the conduct of newly elected local authority chairpersons and mayors. If addressed properly, Sri Lanka can advance among the best nations. Also probe allegations about number-plate tenders and other procurement. There are accusations concerning fuel usage by about four Ministers, and even allegations regarding the Speaker involving fuel and housing usage. Act swiftly not only on past matters but also to prevent new ones. If you govern with genuine purity, the indices will improve and the country can be free from corruption, bribery, fraud and theft.

¶ 05 I thank the Hon. Member for bringing this motion. Government backbenchers, especially women Members, have significant influence—use it to insist on speedy investigations, including where accusations face your own side, so the country can move forward.