The Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) has granted approval for the 2026 budget estimate of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).
This decision was made during a Committee meeting held on Thursday (11) in Parliament, chaired by MP Dr. Harsha de Silva.
During the session, the Chairman emphasized the importance of granting financial autonomy to key oversight institutions such as the Bribery Commission and the Auditor General’s Department, similar to the financial independence enjoyed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). He noted that such independence would allow these bodies to operate free from political influence and government control, thereby ensuring greater accountability.
The Committee further resolved to bring this matter to the attention of the Minister of Finance, who also serves as the President.
Additionally, Dr. de Silva highlighted the need to align the remuneration of the CIABOC Chairman, Director General, and members with that of the President of the Court of Appeal. He stated that as the salary of the Court of Appeal President is revised, the salaries of these officials should also be updated accordingly, and assured that necessary interventions will be made in this regard.
Members of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake, Harshana Rajakaruna, (Dr.) Kaushalya Ariyaratne, Wijesiri Basnayake, Sunil Rajapaksha, Nimal Palihena, Thilina Samarakoon, and Nishantha Jayaweera were also present at the meeting.
