The 2013 amendment to the Anti-Corruption Commission Act, requiring government approval to investigate politicians or bureaucrats, has been particularly criticized for stifling the ACC’s independence.
Speaking at a press conference, BNP standing committee member and former state minister for power Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku emphasised the need for transparency.
The regime’s kleptocratic system of ruling by plunder and favour to its cronies has contributed to accelerated wealth and income gaps as well as relative deprivation.
Sri Lanka plans to revise the draft bill on stolen asset recovery, a move aimed at strengthening mechanisms to retrieve illicitly acquired funds hidden domestically and abroad.
The call for sanctions coincides with international pressure for reform within Sri Lanka. Critics argue that the lack of accountability perpetuates a culture of impunity, allowing economic and human rights violations to continue unchecked.
The PTI has vowed to continue its protests until Khan is released unconditionally, accusing the government of orchestrating politically motivated charges.
Despite the political transition, Sri Lanka has maintained its economic policies, providing reassurance to investors. Analysts suggest the stability and anti-corruption stance of the new government could further bolster investor confidence.
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.
South Asia’s lead crisis is not inevitable. Experience elsewhere demonstrates that decisive regulation, industrial formalisation and community-level interventions can sharply reduce exposure.
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.