Transparency International Sri Lanka has raised concerns that planned amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act would restrict public access to corruption-related information and weaken accountability mechanisms.
Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has flagged potential risks in proposed amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act, contending that the changes would grant excessive discretion to anti-corruption authorities to restrict access to sensitive information. According to TISL, the proposed modifications would allow the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) to withhold details from asset and liability declarations on privacy grounds.
The organisation expressed particular concern about provisions that would penalise individuals who share information from questioned asset declarations without the declaration holder's consent. TISL argues that this restriction could prevent exposure of alleged corruption and illicit wealth accumulation, even in cases involving public officials.
TISL warned that the amendments would effectively limit the scope of asset declaration data to formal investigations, removing opportunities for public debate and scrutiny. The organisation contends this approach would particularly hamper journalists, civil society groups, and citizens seeking to hold officials accountable for their financial dealings.
Calling for a reconsideration of the proposed changes, TISL stressed that anti-corruption legislation should prioritise strengthening rather than weakening transparency and public accountability. The organisation's position reflects broader concerns about balancing privacy protections with the public interest in scrutinising official conduct.
