In a historic step toward strengthening democratic governance and advancing Sri Lanka’s fight against corruption, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has launched a nationwide training initiative for elected members of Local Government bodies.
Titled “Integrity for Local Governance: Empowering Elected Members for a Corruption-Free Sri Lanka,” the program aims to instill integrity, transparency, and accountability among local elected officials, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to comply with Sri Lanka’s strengthened anti-corruption legislation, particularly the Anti-Corruption Act No. 09 of 2023.
Building a Culture of Integrity at the Grassroots
With more than 8,700 elected representatives serving in Municipal Councils, Urban Councils, and Pradeshiya Sabhas, local government institutions form the frontline of public service delivery. While their role is vital in development and citizen trust-building, these institutions are also vulnerable to corruption and mismanagement.
Between August and December 2025, CIABOC will conduct 40 provincial-level training sessions to embed a proactive culture of integrity in local governance. The initiative directly supports the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) 2025–2029, which emphasizes education and community engagement as pillars of Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption reform.
First Training Kicks Off in Western Province
The inaugural session was held on 28 August 2025 at the Western Provincial Council Auditorium, Battaramulla, with the participation of newly elected and returning local government representatives.
The program featured Welcome Remarks by Mr. R.S.A. Dissanayake, Director General of CIABOC, followed by a Keynote Address by Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Harini Amarasooriya. Technical sessions led by CIABOC officials, legal experts, and governance practitioners covered:
- Key provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 09 of 2023
- Conflict of interest management
- Asset declaration compliance
- Application of the Right to Information for transparency
- Institutionalizing ethical leadership in local government
Organized by CIABOC in partnership with the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, and supported by Provincial Councils, Provincial Training Institutes, and Local Government Institutions, the program is designed to create a lasting impact.
Ultimately, this landmark initiative underscores CIABOC’s vision of building a “Country of Integrity” – where local leaders act not only as administrators but also as ethical stewards of public trust and accountability.
