TISL calls for timely AG action on COPE Report

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) yesterday urged for timely action by the Attorney General (AG) on the findings of the COPE report. 

In a statement, TISL said it was encouraged by the Committee on Public Enterprise (COPE) issuing a unanimous report on the Central Bank bond controversy, following days of conflicting and contradictory statements. The report has now been forwarded to the Attorney General for his opinion.

TISL called on the Attorney General to ensure that his opinion and any related decisions are taken in light of the need to ensure justice and fairness, with the need for timely due process. TISL notes with concern past criticisms levelled against the Attorney General’s department in their untimely handling of cases, supporting the adage that justice delayed is justice denied.

In providing his opinion, TISL urges the Attorney General to ensure that his actions are commensurate to the high level of integrity and public trust placed in the Attorney General’s department.

In light of the allegations made in the COPE report connecting former Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran and Perpetual Treasuries, a primary dealer connected with his son-in-law Arjun Aloysius, TISL calls on the Government to recognise and support the need for greater public awareness around the issue of conflict of interest and connected parties. Furthermore, TISL recommends that the Government strengthens its processes to prevent alleged instances of conflict of interest reoccurring.