Today (21), the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus (WPC) has presented a series of proposals aimed at amending the Anti-Corruption Bill, which is set to be deliberated and passed in Parliament. These recommendations were submitted to the Speaker on behalf of the WPC and the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Children, Women, and Gender, as stated in a Parliament statement.
MP Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, the chairperson of the Caucus, expressed satisfaction with the inclusion of provisions addressing sexual bribery within the current draft of the Anti-Corruption Bill. However, Dr. Fernandopulle highlighted two significant concerns that require immediate amendment before the scheduled debate on June 21, 2023.
Firstly, the Caucus advocates for a revision in the terminology related to the offense of ‘sexual favor.’ They argue that the term “sexual favor” diminishes the severity of the offense, proposing instead that it be replaced with the term “sexual bribery” to ensure that the gravity of the offense is appropriately reflected in the legislation.
Secondly, Dr. Fernandopulle raised concerns about Section 162, Sub-section (f) of the draft bill, which suggests that both the giver and taker of a bribe could be held accountable for the offense of corruption. The Caucus contends that this provision may unfairly treat the person offering the bribe. They request the inclusion of an exception specifically pertaining to sexual bribery, where the giver or offeror of the bribe is not deemed guilty.
By submitting these proposals, the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on combating corruption and address potential loopholes in the Anti-Corruption Bill, particularly concerning matters of sexual bribery and fairness in the application of the law.
